The Federal Government has reiterated that private-sector employers who pay less than the newly established N70,000 minimum wage risk facing jail time. Kachollom Daju, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Labour and Employment, made this announcement during the 13th Annual General Meeting of the Employers Association for Private Employment Agencies of Nigeria in Ikeja, Lagos.
Represented by John Nyamali, Director of Employment and Wages, Daju emphasized that the minimum wage is now a legal requirement. "Paying less than N70,000 to any worker is a punishable offense. The updated wage is essential to meet current economic realities, and no Nigerian worker should earn below this amount, regardless of public or private sector employment."
He urged private employment agencies to ensure that all contracts stipulate adherence to the minimum wage, stating that the lowest-paid worker in Nigeria should receive N70,000 after deductions. "This is the law, and violations can lead to imprisonment. The Federal Government is dedicated to guaranteeing that every worker receives a minimum of N70,000."
In response, Dr. Olufemi Ogunlowo, President of the Employers Association for Private Employment Agencies of Nigeria, called for clarification on whether the N70,000 applies to net or gross pay. He urged the government and the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) to resolve any uncertainties in the legislation. "We are committed to upholding the minimum wage and ensuring decent jobs for Nigerians while preventing exploitation," Ogunlowo added.