Nigerian Governors Debate N70,000 Minimum Wage Feasibility.
Governors from across the 36 states in Nigeria have recently convened under the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) to address the pressing issue of minimum wage adjustments amidst current economic conditions. The central focus of their discussions was the affordability and sustainability of a proposed minimum wage higher than N70,000.
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Key Points Discussed:
Current Economic Situation:
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- The governors evaluated the economic situation and the ongoing debate regarding the minimum wage.
- They considered various options, including the N60,000 proposed by the Federal Government and the N70,000 currently paid by Edo State.
Challenges with Current Minimum Wage:
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- Some states are struggling to pay the current minimum wage of N30,000, which was implemented in 2019.
- A few states still pay N18,000 due to financial constraints.
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Governors’ Consensus:
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- There was a general agreement that a minimum wage of N100,000 is not feasible.
- The governors expressed concerns about setting a uniform minimum wage that all states can sustain.
Committee Formation:
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- A committee headed by Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma has been established to review the options and make recommendations.
Statements from NGF and Presidency:
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- NGF Chairman and Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq emphasized the need for a wage that is both affordable and sustainable for all states.
- The Presidency, through Special Adviser Bayo Onanuga, denied reports of a proposal for a N105,000 minimum wage by Finance Minister Wale Edun.
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The ongoing deliberations underscore the complex balance between fair labor compensation and economic viability for state governments. The decision-making process will likely consider the diverse economic realities of each state, aiming to avoid financial strain while ensuring workers’ welfare.
The outcome of the NGF’s committee review will be pivotal in shaping Nigeria’s economic future and addressing the minimum wage issue. Stakeholders and citizens alike await the committee’s recommendations, which are expected to chart a sustainable path forward for all states.
