The Federal Government has assured Nigerian workers that the new minimum wage, whenever implemented, would be backdated to take effect from April 1, 2024.

The Minister of Labour and Employment, Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, gave the assurance while speaking at the Workers’ Day celebration in Abuja on Wednesday, May 1.

Onyejeocha also assured workers of President Bola Tinubu’s administration’s commitment to ensure workers’ take-home pay transits from minimum wage to a living wage.

She said: “Nigerian workers should be rest assured that despite the short delay, the new minimum wage will take effect on April 1, 2024.

“Moreover, this government is receptive to the committee’s suggestion of transitioning beyond a mere minimum wage to a living wage that truly reflects the value of workers’ contributions.

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“Although the committee could not reach a consensus at its last meeting before the May deadline, we want to reassure Nigerian workers that we are working diligently around the clock with organised labour to conclude negotiations and ensure a successful outcome. Our commitment is unwavering.

“You will recall that on January 30, 2024, the Federal Government took a decisive step towards enhancing the welfare of Nigerian workers by inaugurating a 37-man Tripartite Committee on Minimum Wage.

“This committee was tasked with the critical responsibility of recommending a realistic national minimum wage that aligns with our current economic landscape. Since then, the committee has been working tirelessly alongside Labour leaders to reach an agreement on a new national minimum wage that reflects the country’s economic realities.”

The minister added: “I urge all stakeholders to embrace a spirit of cooperation, understanding, and patriotism, coupled with diligence and increased productivity.

“By working together, we can lift our nation out of poverty and usher in an era of prosperity for workers and citizens alike. Rest assured that this government empathises with the struggles of workers and citizens and will not falter in its commitment to their well-being.

“I urge organised labour to foster a conducive environment that promotes constructive engagement and collaborative problem-solving for the benefit of all stakeholders and the nation as a whole.”

The Star