
This came as the Federal Government has promised to clear arrears of the N35,000 wage award owed its workers.
Vanguard gathered that labour has been working round the clock to ensure that its wage demand can hardly be faulted by both government and private sector employers.
According to sources, organised labour’s demand will be guided and determined by the cost of living and other socioeconomic parameters across the country.
Consequently, to ensure that labour’s demand is data-based, instead of sentiments, Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, has directed its state councils nationwide to collate the cost of living data in towns and local government areas in states.
To source such data, NLC has designed a data collection form for local governments and towns.
In a circular dated January 17, 2024, to the state councils, titled “National minimum wage negotiation- Data collection: Urgent action required”, NLC’s General Secretary, Emmanuel Ugboaja, wrote: “As we gear up for the forthcoming negotiations on a new national minimum wage, it is crucial that we gather accurate and comprehensive data on the average cost of living across our nation. State councils of the NLC have been identified as key players in this essential task.
“The success of our efforts in negotiating a fair and equitable national minimum wage depends significantly on the thoroughness and accuracy of the data we collect. Therefore, I am writing to urge your immediate attention and action in conducting the necessary research and collating vital information.
“To facilitate this process, please find attached two forms. The first form is designed for distribution around the towns and local government areas in your state. It is imperative that these forms are disseminated widely to ensure representation and inclusive data collection process.
