By The Metro 
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) says it will soon begin negotiations with the Federal Government for a new national minimum wage, insisting that the current N70,000 wage is no longer adequate.
Speaking at the Rights of Workers Summit in Birnin Kebbi on Thursday, NLC President Joe Ajaero, represented by Deputy President Audu Titus Amba, said workers should prepare for fresh negotiations.
He argued that the current minimum wage could no longer meet workers’ basic needs amid rising inflation and the increasing cost of living.
“Anything less than N500,000 cannot cater for workers. The current minimum wage is due for review, and we will soon begin negotiations with the government,” he said.
Also speaking, Trade Union Congress (TUC) President Festus Osifo, represented by Secretary-General Nuhu Toro, said worsening economic conditions had eroded workers’ purchasing power.
He cited rising food prices, transport fares, rent and inflation as factors making the current wage inadequate.
Osifo urged employers to comply with labour laws by ensuring fair remuneration and better welfare for workers.
He said the summit provided an opportunity to discuss workers’ rights, stressing that the Constitution guarantees workers the right to decent work and fair treatment.
Governor Nasir Idris of Kebbi State pledged support for labour’s demand for improved wages.
He said Nigerian workers deserved better welfare and promised to advocate a new remuneration package through the Nigeria Governors’ Forum.
“We must work together to improve the welfare of workers. As a member of the Governors’ Forum, I will support efforts to secure better remuneration for them,” the governor said.