The Federal Government has urged private sector recruitment agencies to comply with the N70,000 minimum wage, emphasizing that any non-compliance will face strict penalties.
The new minimum wage aims to align with current economic conditions, with the government asserting that no worker, whether in the public or private sector, should earn below this threshold.
Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment, Alhaji Ismaila Abubakar, delivered this message on Wednesday at the 13th Annual General Meeting of the Employers Association for Private Employment Agencies of Nigeria, held in Ikeja, Lagos. Represented by John Nyamali, Director of Employment and Wages, Abubakar emphasized that paying less than N70,000 is now illegal and punishable.
Abubakar stated, “The minimum wage has become a legal requirement, and failing to pay at least N70,000 to any employee is considered a criminal offense. Private employment agencies must ensure that contracts stipulate this minimum wage, which should be N70,000 after all deductions.”
The President of the Employers Association for Private Employment Agencies of Nigeria (EAPEAN), Dr. Olufemi Ogunlowo, called for clarification on whether the N70,000 minimum wage is net or gross. He highlighted the need for the government and Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) to address any ambiguities in the legislation.
Ogunlowo assured that EAPEAN is committed to adhering to the minimum wage and preventing exploitation. “As a law-abiding association, we are dedicated to implementing the minimum wage and ensuring fair employment practices. We urge the government to clarify whether the N70,000 is net or gross,” he said.
Funmilayo Sessi, Chairperson of the NLC Lagos State Council, also spoke at the event, highlighting the difficulties workers face due to current economic conditions. She stressed that private employers must adhere to the N70,000 minimum wage and warned that the NLC in Lagos State would enforce compliance.
Sessi remarked, “Given the prevailing economic hardships, the N70,000 minimum wage may still fall short, but it must be implemented. We will ensure strict enforcement and urge EAPEAN to avoid any conflict with the NLC regarding the minimum wage.”
