In a plea for unity and national interest, Senate Leader Senator Opeyemi Bamidele has called on the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) to accept the federal government’s latest offer on a new minimum wage.
Bamidele, of the All Progressives Congress (APC) representing Ekiti Central, noted that the government has conceded to a 100% increase, raising the minimum wage to 60,000 Naira. However, he stated that the labor unions have so far rejected this offer, leading to a two-day strike.
“The federal government has promised to make more concessions in this respect,” Bamidele said. “As the federal government reveals its new offer, I plead with the organised labour to accept it in the national interest.”
The Senate Leader emphasized that the country’s economic challenges require a collective, patriotic approach. He assured that the Tinubu administration is taking “multi-pronged measures to reverse disturbing economic indicators.”
In his Eid-el-Kabir message, Bamidele urged Nigerians to demonstrate unity and support for the government’s “Renewed Hope Agenda.” He highlighted key initiatives such as the 700km Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway, the N50 billion Pulako Initiative, and the declaration of an agricultural emergency with a N100 billion fund.
Bamidele appealed to the Muslim faithful to pray for the leaders, calling for divine wisdom and understanding to guide them through the country’s economic realities. He expressed confidence that with the support of all Nigerians, the administration can deliver democratic dividends and alleviate the hardship faced by citizens.