The Federal Government has called on private sector recruitment agencies to adhere to the newly established minimum wage of N70,000, emphasizing that non-compliance will not be tolerated. This move aims to ensure that no Nigerian worker, whether in public or private employment, earns less than this amount, reflecting the current economic conditions.
Alhaji Ismaila Abubakar, Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment, made this announcement on Wednesday during the 13th Annual General Meeting of the Employers Association for Private Employment Agencies of Nigeria, held in Ikeja, Lagos. Represented by John Nyamali, the ministry’s Director of Employment and Wages, Abubakar stated, “The minimum wage is now a law, and paying less than N70,000 to any employee is a punishable offense.”
He urged private employment agencies to ensure that any contracts they enter into stipulate that workers must receive at least the minimum wage, which should amount to N70,000 after all deductions. “The Federal Government is dedicated to guaranteeing that the least paid worker takes home N70,000,” he affirmed.
Dr. Olufemi Ogunlowo, President of the Employers Association for Private Employment Agencies of Nigeria (EAPEAN), echoed the need for clarity regarding whether the N70,000 minimum wage is calculated as net or gross. He highlighted the importance of addressing any ambiguities within the legislation. Ogunlowo affirmed EAPEAN’s commitment to upholding the minimum wage, creating decent job opportunities, and protecting workers from exploitation.
“As an employers’ union, we are law-abiding and fully support the implementation of the minimum wage. Our principals and clients are also on board,” he stated. However, he stressed the necessity for the government and the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) to clarify the terms of the minimum wage.
Funmilayo Sessi, Chairperson of the NLC Lagos State Council, pointed out that the prevailing economic hardships have significantly eroded the value of workers’ incomes. She urged private employers to implement the N70,000 minimum wage to help alleviate the financial struggles faced by employees.
“The N70,000 isn’t sufficient given the current economic realities. Once the necessary adjustments are made, all private employment agencies should promptly start paying their workers this minimum wage,” she said. Sessi assured that the NLC in Lagos State would enforce compliance with the minimum wage and cautioned EAPEAN to avoid any confrontations regarding this matter.