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The Implications of Non-compliance with Nigeria’s Minimum Wage Law
The recent pronouncement by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) calling for the implementation of the newly approved national minimum wage underscores a critical juncture in Nigeria’s labour relations and economic landscape. Signed into law by President Bola Tinubu in July, the new national minimum wage is set at ₦70,000. While the intent of this legislation is to safeguard the rights and livelihoods of workers amidst an ever-increasing cost of living, compliance among the states has been inconsistent, raising concerns over potential unrest and labour disputes.
As of October 2024, the NLC has reported that while some states, such as Lagos and Ogun, have taken significant steps to comply by increasing their wage offerings, many others remain laggard in meeting the legal obligation. The spokesperson for the NLC, Benson Upah, emphasized that the challenges largely stem from the consequential wage adjustment, a formula intended to fairly augment salaries in accordance with each worker’s grade level. This complexity has resulted in varied levels of implementation across the nation, with some states merely forming committees without effecting actual pay increases.
The NLC and other unions, such as the Association of Senior Civil Servants of Nigeria, have expressed their discontent with the situation, indicating that no state has fully implemented the new minimum wage to date. Government announcements alone, as noted by the General Secretary of ASCSN, Joshua Apebo, have not translated into actionable changes for workers. This dissonance between verbal commitments and tangible actions could potentially lead to significant unrest, particularly as the economic pressures on the populace escalate due to inflation and fluctuations in the exchange rate.
The NLC’s warning that states failing to comply would face “trouble” illustrates the precarious position of state governments in navigating their fiscal responsibilities against the backdrop of public discontent. With revenue from the Federation Accounts Allocation Committee (FAAC) indicating increased financial flows to states, the argument for non-compliance appears tenuous. As Upah aptly stated, “the states have become very rich” and therefore must prioritize fulfilling their legal obligations to prevent destabilization.
In conclusion, the successful implementation of the new national minimum wage is both a legal obligation for the states and a moral imperative to protect the welfare of workers in Nigeria. As the NLC prepares to hold state governments accountable, the urgency for action grows. Failure to comply not only jeopardizes the financial security of countless families but also threatens the broader social harmony, risking the resurgence of unrest in a nation already facing various economic challenges. Therefore, it is imperative for state governments to expedite the implementation process and uphold the rights of their workers in accordance with the law.
On Friday, May 16, 2025, Princess Opeyemi Bright was sworn in as the youngest Mayor in the United Kingdom, assuming the prestigious title of First Citizen of the London Borough of Barking and Dagenham at the age of 29.
Born in the UK to Nigerian parents, Princess Bright’s election has been widely lauded as a testament to diversity, youth empowerment, and the increasing global impact of the Nigerian diaspora. Having served as a councillor since the age of 22, her ascent to mayoralty follows a legacy of public service, with her mother, Dr. Councillor Afolasade Bright, previously serving as Civic Mayor of Hackney.
Princess Bright’s success exemplifies a broader trend of Nigerians achieving prominent positions in international governance, joining the ranks of figures like Kemi Badenoch and Chi Onwurah in the UK, and others globally. Her inauguration serves as an encouragement for youth engagement in politics and underscores the vital role young people and women play in shaping public life. This historic achievement offers valuable insights for Nigerian policymakers in diaspora engagement and leadership development initiatives.
Nollywood actress Mary Njoku has recently ignited a debate regarding the necessity of the Joint Admissions and Matriculation Board (JAMB) examination for university admissions in Nigeria. In a statement posted on her Instagram story, Njoku questioned the need for JAMB and post-UTME, arguing that the Senior School Certificate Examination (SSCE) should be sufficient proof of a candidate’s completion of secondary education.
Her statement comes amidst recent controversy surrounding JAMB, particularly following widespread reports of mass failures in the 2025 Unified Tertiary Matriculation Examinations (UTME). While JAMB has admitted to errors and announced retakes for affected candidates, Njoku’s questioning highlights a deeper concern regarding the redundancy and potential inefficiencies within the current university admission process. The actress’s comments add fuel to an existing debate about the effectiveness and fairness of the JAMB examination in evaluating a student’s readiness for tertiary education.
South African sensation Tyla is poised to make history as the first African personality to host the Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Awards. Organizers announced the Grammy-winning artist as the host of the 2025 edition, scheduled to air live on June 21st from the Barker Hangar in Santa Monica, California.
Beyond hosting duties, Tyla has also secured two nominations: Favourite Global Music Star and Favourite Music Collaboration for “Show Me Love” with WizTheMc, and “bees & honey.”
The nominations list is topped by Kendrick Lamar, Ariana Grande, and Lady Gaga, each receiving four nods. Selena Gomez, Dwayne Johnson, Jelly Roll, and Jack Black follow closely behind with three nominations apiece.
Expressing her excitement on X, Tyla simply stated, “I’m really about to host the kids choice awards.” This landmark achievement further solidifies Tyla’s rising star on the global stage.
Princess Opeyemi Bright Inaugurated as Youngest UK Mayor.
Nollywood Actress Questions JAMB’s Relevance in University Admissions.
Tyla to Host 2025 Nickelodeon Kids’ Choice Awards.
Queen Phinadon Honored at the Cultural Exhibition and Award Ceremony 202
Marvel Studios’ Captain America: Brave New World Set for Theatrical Release
Nigeria’s SEC Grants Approvals to Crypto Operators: A Step Towards Regulation and Acceptance
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