FWF Advises Tinubu’s Government Against Naira Devaluation Post-Minimum Wage Implementation

Workers under the Federal Workers Forum (FWF) have advised the government led by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu not to devalue the naira after implementing the new national minimum wage.

The forum made this recommendation during a meeting held on Sunday, emphasizing the need for a living wage for federal workers amidst the current economic challenges.

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has been pushing for a new national minimum wage following the removal of subsidy on Premium Motor Spirit (PMS).

The FWF applauded the government for introducing a wage award but urged it not to devalue the naira after implementing the new minimum wage.

Comrade Andrew Emelieze, the National Coordinator of the forum, stressed the importance of clearing all outstanding arrears owed to federal workers and announcing the new minimum wage on Workers Day, May 1, 2024.

He pointed out that the ₦35,000 wage award has not adequately addressed the economic challenges faced by federal government workers in Nigeria.

Emelieze also highlighted the need for a living wage, suggesting that a minimum of ₦300,000 would not be unreasonable given the current cost of living crisis.

He emphasized that workers need an average of ₦2,000 daily for transport and at least ₦2,000 per meal.

The FWF called for justice and a fair and just living wage for the federal workforce, rejecting anything less than a living wage.

The forum also urged the government not to forget to clear all outstanding arrears owed to federal workers.

As the government considers the implementation of the new national minimum wage, it must also ensure that it does not devalue the naira, which would further exacerbate the economic challenges faced by federal workers.