The Bishop of Ibadan South Diocese Anglican Communion, Rt. Rev. Akintunde Popoola, has called upon the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC) to prioritize the welfare of poor Nigerians before initiating a potential strike over the proposed new minimum wage.
He emphasized that strikes disproportionately affect the less privileged and urged the labor unions to engage in genuine negotiations with the government.
Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, expressed concern over the NLC’s demand for a ₦494,000 minimum wage, stating that it would substantially increase the Federal Government’s annual wage bill to ₦9.5 trillion.
He stressed that such a wage increase would be financially unsustainable and appealed to Organised Labour to reconsider their strike plans.
Speaking at a thanksgiving service in Ibadan during the 1st Session of the 9th Synod of the Diocese, Bishop Popoola acknowledged the legitimacy of the NLC’s request but cautioned that it could trigger uncontrollable inflation.
He urged both the government and Organised Labour to be flexible in their negotiations, emphasizing the need to address the suffering of the populace. Bishop Popoola highlighted the inadequacy of current wages, stating that many workers struggle to make ends meet on their earnings.
He called upon leaders to set positive examples and prioritize human development for the betterment of Nigeria. Additionally, he praised Oyo Governor Seyi Makinde for his efforts in completing abandoned projects, ensuring timely payment of workers’ salaries, and allocating funds to vital sectors such as education and health.
