Zamfara NLC issues ultimatum over non-implementation of N70,000 minimum wage

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has called on the Zamfara State government to immediately implement the National Minimum Wage of ₦70,000, aligning with the directive issued by its National Secretariat during a NEC meeting held in Port Harcourt on November 8, 2024.

In a communique signed by Comrade Sani Halliru, the Zamfara State NLC chairman, the congress condemned the state government’s failure to implement the 2024 National Minimum Wage Act. The refusal was described as a betrayal of workers’ rights amid the current economic hardships.

The communique, made available to journalists in Gusau, revealed that all affiliate unions in Zamfara had endorsed the ultimatum given to the state government. The unions demand compliance by the end of November 2024, warning that failure to do so will result in an indefinite industrial action starting December 1, effectively shutting down state operations.

“The failure to implement the minimum wage is a blatant disregard for the law, morality, and the well-being of workers enduring immense hardship. Justice delayed is justice denied,” the communique stated.

The NLC further urged workers in the state to prepare for the strike, asserting that the action is necessary to secure their rights and improve livelihoods.

“The Zamfara NLC Council stands firmly in solidarity with Nigerian workers in their fight for justice and dignity. We will not relent until the minimum wage is fully implemented,” the statement concluded.

The ultimatum comes as state governments across Nigeria face increasing pressure to comply with the revised minimum wage, a measure intended to alleviate workers’ struggles in the face of economic challenges.