Private Employers to Face Jail Time for Paying Below N70,000 Minimum Wage – FG Warns”

The Federal Government has issued a stern warning to private sector employers, emphasizing that failure to comply with the new N70,000 minimum wage enforcement could lead to jail time. This mandate, aimed at addressing the nation’s economic challenges, applies to all Nigerian workers, regardless of whether they are employed by the government or private firms.

Speaking at the 13th Annual General Meeting of the Employers Association for Private Employment Agencies of Nigeria, held in Lagos, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Labour and Employment, Kachollom Daju, reiterated the government’s commitment. Represented by the Director of Employment and Wages, John Nyamali, Daju stated, “It is now a punishable offense for any employer to pay below N70,000. This minimum wage is not optional but a legal obligation.”

Private employment agencies have been urged to incorporate the N70,000 minimum wage enforcement into their contracts with principals to ensure that all employees, after deductions, receive the stipulated amount. Daju stressed that the government is committed to seeing that every worker takes home at least N70,000.

Dr. Olufemi Ogunlowo, President of the Employers Association for Private Employment Agencies of Nigeria, expressed the association’s readiness to comply with the new wage law but called on the government and the Nigeria Labour Congress to clarify whether the figure is net or gross. He assured attendees that his association is law-abiding and fully committed to decent job standards for Nigerians.

Funmilayo Sessi, Chairperson of the Lagos State chapter of the NLC, further highlighted the urgent need for this wage increase, stating that the ongoing economic hardship has significantly eroded workers’ earnings. She emphasized that all private employers should start adhering to the N70,000 minimum wage enforcement without delay, as the NLC is prepared to ensure its implementation across Lagos.

This new wage policy is a critical step in improving workers’ welfare and ensuring fair compensation in Nigeria’s private sector.