“It Is A Punishable Crime” – FG Warns Against Paying Workers Less Than ₦70,000 Minimum Wage

The Federal Government of Nigeria has issued a clear warning that no worker, whether in public or private employment, should be paid less than the ₦70,000 minimum wage. Those who disregard this directive are committing a crime and may face penalties.

Kachollom Daju, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Labour and Employment, made this announcement on Wednesday at the 13th Annual General Meeting of the Employers Association for Private Employment Agencies of Nigeria, held in Ikeja, Lagos. He emphasized that the new minimum wage is essential to address the current economic challenges.

Daju, represented by the Director of Employment and Wages, John Nyamali, stated, “The minimum wage is now a law, and as a result, it is a punishable crime for any employer to pay less than ₦70,000 to any of its workers.” He urged private employment agencies to ensure that any contracts they take include a clause stating that their workers must earn at least the minimum wage. He insisted that “the least paid worker in Nigeria should earn ₦70,000, and I think that should be after all deductions.”

Daju reiterated that failing to implement this law could lead to jail time. He stressed the government’s commitment to ensuring that every worker receives this minimum amount.

In response, Dr. Olufemi Ogunlowo, President of the Employers Association for Private Employment Agencies of Nigeria, raised a question about whether the ₦70,000 minimum wage is calculated as net or gross pay. He highlighted the need for clarity on ambiguities in the law.

Ogunlowo assured that the association is dedicated to upholding the minimum wage and providing decent jobs while protecting workers from exploitation. “As a labor union in the private sector, we are committed to the implementation of the minimum wage. We are a law-abiding and guided association. Our principals and clients have also keyed into the minimum wage,” he said. However, he urged the government and the Nigeria Labour Congress to clarify the specifics of the minimum wage.

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