President Bola Ahmed Tinubu assured workers yesterday that a living wage will soon be awarded to them.
He added that the issues which prevented the Tripartite Committee on Minimum Wage from reaching a consensus would soon be resolved.
Minister of State for Labour, Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, said despite the delay, the new minimum wage would take effect from April 1 when approved.
She admitted that workers deserved a living wage and that the government would ensure they get it.
However, Labour threatened strike should the committee fail to conclude negotiations on a new minimum wage by the end of May.
This was contained in a joint address delivered by leaders of the two labour centres – Joe Ajaero for the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Festus Osifo for the Trade Union Congress (TUC) to workers.
They said: “At this point comrades, we want to inform you that the process of fixing a new national minimum wage is continuing.
“All the parties in the Tripartite process are well represented and the engagement has been robust.
“We have placed our demand of N615,000 only before our social partners while we await their offer.
“Remember that earlier in the year, we sent questionnaires to all of you across the nation with which we sought to measure the actual cost of living for an average family of six.
“Your response to that questionnaire which you also administered across the 776 LGAs assisted us in arriving at the figure with minor adjustments…
“However, it is important that we urge every worker around the nation to remain vigilant as this process winds to an end.
“We must not let our guards down but be alert so that together, we can assist the government make the right decision and pay workers a living wage as promised by our President, His Excellency, Bola Ahmed Tinubu during his inaugural speech.
“We will not allow other interests to sabotage the desire of the president concerning a Living wage for workers.
“If, however, the negotiation of the National Minimum wage is not concluded by the end of May, the Trade Union Movement in Nigeria will no longer guarantee industrial peace in the country.”
