Private Employers Paying Less than N70,000 May Face Jail time – FG

During the 13th Annual General Meeting of the Employers Association for Private Employment Agencies of Nigeria, held in Ikeja, the Federal Government of Nigeria has issued a strong directive to private sector employers, mandating adherence to the newly established minimum wage of N70,000.

Alhaji Ismaila Abubakar, the Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment, emphasized that compliance with this wage law is essential to address the current economic challenges faced by workers.

He stated that no Nigerian worker, whether employed in the public or private sector, should earn less than this minimum wage.

Abubakar highlighted that failure to comply with this law could result in severe penalties, including imprisonment for employers who do not adhere to the wage requirement.

John Nyamali, the Director of Employment and Wages at the Ministry, reiterated that it is now a legal obligation for private employment agencies to ensure their contracts stipulate that workers are compensated at least N70,000 after all deductions.

He stressed that the government is committed to enforcing this law to protect the livelihoods of workers.

In response to the government's mandate, Dr. Olufemi Ogunlowo, President of the Employers Association for Private Employment Agencies of Nigeria, called for clarification on whether the N70,000 minimum wage is calculated as net or gross pay.

He urged both the government and the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) to clarify any ambiguities surrounding the legislation.

Funmilayo Sessi, Chairperson of the NLC Lagos State Council, acknowledged the financial difficulties many workers face and urged private employers to comply with the minimum wage directive promptly.

She pointed out that while N70,000 may not be sufficient given current economic conditions, it is crucial for all private employment agencies to implement this wage as soon as possible.