Nigerian governors have reassured the organized labour and the public that improved minimum wage terms are on the horizon as negotiations progress. This assurance follows the rejection by governors of the Federal Government’s proposed N62,000 minimum wage, citing financial constraints in some states that may necessitate borrowing to meet salary obligations
Organized labour, however, remains steadfast in its demand for a minimum wage of N250,000, highlighting the ongoing disparity in expectations between labour groups and state governors.
In response to the postponement of minimum wage discussions by the Federal Executive Council to allow for broader consultations led by President Bola Tinubu, the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) convened an emergency meeting. The meeting extended into the early hours of Thursday, culminating in a communiqué issued by Ahmed Salihu, the acting Director of Media for the NGF.
The communiqué outlined the outcomes of the meeting, emphasizing the governors’ commitment to engaging with stakeholders to find a mutually agreeable solution regarding the new national minimum wage.
“The Forum discussed the new National Minimum Wage. The governors agreed to continue engaging with key stakeholders to reach a mutually agreeable solution. We remain dedicated to the process and assure that better wages will result from the ongoing negotiations,” the communiqué affirmed.
Additionally, the governors acknowledged the significance of the World Bank-Nigeria for Women Project Scale-Up, underscoring the importance of implementing it at the state level to advance gender equality and social development across Nigeria.
The NGF also received updates from the Acting Country Director of the World Bank and discussed various ongoing projects aimed at enhancing economic resilience and prosperity at the state level.
The governors expressed their support for ongoing fiscal policy and tax reforms, pledging to collaborate closely to ensure effective implementation and address any challenges that may arise.