Minimum Wage : Lawan Wants NLC to Shelve Strike Action

Senate President, Dr Ahmad Lawan, has pleaded with the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), to shelve its planned strike action over the reported delay in the implementation of the N30, 000 minimum wage by federal and state governments.

Lawan made the plea yesterday when the executives of the NLC and the Parliamentary Staff Association of Nigeria (PASAN), led by Ayuba Wabara and Sunday Sabiyi, respectively ,paid him a courtesy visit.

He called for further understanding and patriotism by the labour, adding that some states have started paying the agreed minimum wage.

“So, we should not encourage personal issue to overshadow our collective responsibility to nation building.

“We will journey with you to ensure absolute implementation of the minimum wage by the federal government,” he said.

Lawan also called on the PASAN leadership to collaborate with the management and leadership of the National Assembly, urging them to present issue-based arguments instead of engaging in strike action to press home their demands.

He assured that the Ninth assembly will not be distracted but remain focused in pursing growth in every sector of the country.

Speaking earlier, Ayuba had pledged the commitment and collaboration of the labour unions to the federal legislation.

Also speaking, PASAN Chairman, Sabiyi urged Lawan to use his wealth of experience as a ranking senator to the service and protection of the interests of the people.

He also used the forum to table the demands of the parliamentary staff in the National Assembly, which include implementation of 2018 arrears of 28 per cent and balance of 50 per cent consolidated legislative salary, implementation of condition of service recently approved by the eight National Assembly, training of staff, health insurance and life insurance premium.

Meanwhile, the Senate president also yesterday inaugurated two Ad-hoc committees on Senate Legislative Agenda; and Media and Public Affairs.