The federal government has assured workers in the country that the implementation of the new national minimum would still take effect from April 1.

Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, Minister of State for Labour and Employment, gave the assurance on Wednesday in Abuja during the commemoration of the May Day celebration.

Ms Onyejeocha recalled that on January 30, 2024, the government took a decisive step towards enhancing the welfare of Nigerian workers by inaugurating a 37-man Tripartite Committee on Minimum Wage.

According to her, this committee recommended a realistic national minimum wage that aligns with our current economic landscape.

“Our commitment is unwavering, and Nigerian workers should be rest assured that, in spite of the short delay, the new minimum wage will take effect on April 1, 2024,” the minister said.

Ms Onyejeocha said it was unacceptable for any worker to toil tirelessly and still struggle to make ends meet, hence the ongoing efforts by the federal government to pay Wage Award to workers and review of the National Minimum Wage by a tripartite committee.

She further said this was to ensure that every worker received a fair living wage that would enable them to live with dignity, provide for their families, and contribute to the economy’s growth.

The minister also affirmed the government’s commitment to making workers’ needs and aspirations the forefront of the national agenda. She said this was achieved by providing fair and just working conditions, which were not just ideals but basic human rights.

“This is because every worker deserves to work in an environment free from exploitation, discrimination, and oppression. We must, therefore, strive to create workplaces that foster dignity, respect, job security and inclusivity for all,” she said.

She urged all stakeholders to embrace a spirit of cooperation, understanding, patriotism, diligence, and increased productivity.

She added that working together could lift our nation out of poverty and usher in an era of prosperity for workers and citizens alike.

(NAN)