The Socio-Economic Rights and Accountability Project (SERAP) has called on President Bola Tinubu to ensure that his government’s proposed bill on a new minimum wage for Nigerian workers aligns with international obligations to promote and advance the right of workers to an adequate living wage.
In his Democracy Day speech on June 12, President Tinubu announced plans to send an executive bill to the National Assembly to establish the new minimum wage as law for the next five years or less.
However, SERAP expressed concerns in a letter dated June 15, 2024, signed by Deputy Director Kolawole Oluwadare.
The organization stated that the proposed minimum wage is grossly inadequate and does not meet the requirements of international human rights treaties to which Nigeria is a party.
SERAP emphasized that the executive bill should reflect international standards, ensuring Nigerian workers are provided with at least a living wage that accounts for the cost of living.
The letter stated, “Any proposed minimum wage that fails to guarantee a life in dignity for Nigerian workers and their families would be entirely inconsistent and incompatible with international standards.”
The organization highlighted the persistent and systematic violations of workers’ rights by successive governments, leading to millions of Nigerian workers remaining impoverished due to low wages and lack of social security and protection.
SERAP warned that if the government sends a bill to the National Assembly that does not meet international standards and is passed into law, the organization will take appropriate legal action to compel the government to comply with its request in the public interest.
“The proposed recommendations are not unrealistic, as they are based on Nigeria’s international human rights obligations. Human rights are not a matter of charity.
“Upholding Nigeria’s international obligations regarding the right of workers to an adequate living wage would protect the purchasing power of workers in poverty,” the letter added.
Recall that SERAP recently called on President Tinubu to commemorate his first year in office by publicly releasing his asset declaration form.
SERAP also urged the President to encourage Vice-President Kashim Shettima, ministers, and state governors to follow suit.
In an open letter dated May 25, 2024, and signed by Oluwadare, the organization emphasized the importance of such a move in promoting public trust and establishing a transparent governance system.
