The Federal Government has directed recruitment agencies for the private sector to adhere to the N70,000 minimum wage, warning that non-compliance will not be tolerated.
According to the government, the new minimum wage is necessary to address the current economic reality. No Nigerian worker, whether in government or private employment, should be paid less than the minimum wage.
The Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Labour and Employment, Kachollom Daju, emphasized this at the 13th Annual General Meeting of the Employers Association for Private Employment Agencies of Nigeria in Ikeja, Lagos.
“The minimum wage is now a law, and it’s a punishable crime for any employer to pay less than N70,000,” Daju said. “Private employment agencies should ensure contracts specify workers earn at least the minimum wage.”
Daju reiterated the government’s commitment to ensuring the least paid worker receives N70,000 after all deductions.
Dr. Olufemi Ogunlowo, President of the Employers Association, requested clarification on whether the N70,000 minimum wage is net or gross.
Funmilayo Sessi, Chairperson of the NLC Lagos State chapter, stressed that the N70,000 minimum wage is insufficient in the current economic climate.
Sessi warned private employers to pay the minimum wage, stating that the NLC will strictly enforce compliance.
