113th Session of the International Labour Conference (ILC) 2025
Intervention by N.A Toro, P.hD, mni, Workers Delegate Nigeria, Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC), speaking on behalf of Workers under the platform of the Organization of Trade Unions in West Africa (OTUWA)
Protocol:
While the real value of Nigeria’s minimum wage has been significantly eroded by inflation and economic challenges, it is important to highlight a notable achievement by Nigerian workers through persistent struggle and negotiation: the reduction of the minimum wage review cycle from five years to three years. This marks a step forward in institutionalizing wage justice and responsiveness, and stands as a good practice worthy of emulation, especially by fellow trade unions and governments, such as those in Guinea-Bissau.
In contrast, the absence of the right to organize, collective bargaining and structured social dialogue in Guinea-Bissau continues to deprive workers of a fair and decent national minimum wage. As affiliates of the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC), we are bound by shared principles of justice, equity, and dignity in the world of work.
It is therefore unacceptable to Nigerian workers that the Government of Guinea-Bissau continues to ignore the implementation of ILO Convention 131 on Minimum Wage Fixing and fails to activate the Minimum Wage Fixing Machinery (Article 26 of ILO Recommendation 1028). These international standards are not optional; they are obligations aimed at ensuring workers are not trapped in poverty despite being in employment.
The Trade Union Congress (TUC) of Nigeria strongly recommends the immediate initiation of genuine social dialogue in Guinea-Bissau. We urge the Government to constitute a Tripartite Committee, comprising government, employers, and workers’ representatives, to commence negotiations towards the effective fixing of a decent, fair, and living national minimum wage.
Injury to Guinea Bissau Workers is an injury to all of us.
Solidarity forever
For and on Behalf of Nigerian Workers,
Comrade General N.A. Toro. Ph.D, mni+
Secretary General,
Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC).