Private Sector Warned: Below N70,000 Salary Payments May Result In Jail – FG

Private Sector Warned: Below N70,000 Salary Payments May Result In Jail – FG....KINDLY READ THE FULL STORY HERE▶

The Federal Government has urged agencies recruiting for the private sector to comply with the N70,000 minimum wage requirement, emphasizing that deviations will not be tolerated. The new minimum wage is introduced to reflect the current economic conditions, ensuring that no Nigerian worker, whether in public or private employment, receives less than this amount……CONTINUE READING 

Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Labour and Employment, Kachollom Daju, conveyed this message on Wednesday during the 13th Annual General Meeting of the Employers Association for Private Employment Agencies of Nigeria in Ikeja, Lagos. Represented by John Nyamali, Director of Employment and Wages at the ministry, Daju stated, “The minimum wage is now a legal requirement, and paying less than N70,000 is a punishable offense.”

He further instructed private employment agencies to ensure that any contracts they undertake mandate that workers be paid at least the minimum wage. “The minimum wage law must be enforced, and failure to comply could lead to imprisonment. The Federal Government is dedicated to ensuring that the minimum wage of N70,000 is met,” he added.

Dr. Olufemi Ogunlowo, President of the Employers Association for Private Employment Agencies of Nigeria, requested clarification from the government and the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) on whether the N70,000 minimum wage is net or gross, highlighting the need to address any ambiguities in the legislation.

Ogunlowo affirmed the association’s commitment to adhering to the minimum wage and protecting workers from exploitation. “We are committed to implementing the minimum wage and ensuring fair labor practices. However, we need clarity on whether the N70,000 is net or gross,” he said.

Funmilayo Sessi, Chairperson of the NLC Lagos State chapter, noted that the prevailing economic hardships have diminished the value of workers’ earnings. She urged private employers to ensure compliance with the N70,000 minimum wage. “The N70,000 is inadequate given the current economic conditions. We expect all private employment agencies to start paying this amount immediately. The NLC in Lagos will enforce this minimum wage strictly and expects EAPEAN to cooperate,” she stated.