The Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) has assured Nigerians and organized labour that ongoing negotiations will result in a better minimum wage.
Despite rejecting the Federal Government’s proposal of N62,000, citing that some states would need to borrow money to pay salaries, the governors are committed to reaching a consensus. Organized labour has been demanding a wage of N250,000.
The NGF held an emergency meeting after the Federal Executive Council postponed the minimum wage discussion on Tuesday to allow President Bola Tinubu to conduct broader consultations.
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According to a communiqué released after the meeting, which extended into the early hours of Thursday, the governors discussed various national issues, including the new national minimum wage.
“The Forum discussed the new national minimum wage and agreed to continue engaging with key stakeholders to reach a mutually acceptable solution.
We remain dedicated to the process and assure that better wages will result from the ongoing negotiations,” stated the communiqué signed by NGF acting Director of Media, Ahmed Salihu.
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The communiqué also noted a presentation from the Minister of Women Affairs on the World Bank-Nigeria for Women Project Scale-Up.
The governors emphasized the need to implement this project at the state level, acknowledging the Ministry’s efforts in promoting gender equality and social development.
“We, members of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum, at our meeting held today, deliberated on issues affecting the country,” the communiqué read. “Members received the Acting Country Director of the World Bank, Mr. Taimur Samad, and his team to discuss the bank’s various programs currently being implemented in the states, including the HOPE Series of Projects, Food and Nutrition Security, Nigeria For Women Project Scale Up, and others.
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Members expressed willingness to continue to provide the much-needed support to ensure program effectiveness across the country.”
The governors also received a briefing from Mr. Taiwo Oyedele, Chairman of the Presidential Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms Committee, who highlighted the progress of ongoing fiscal policy and tax reforms.
The NGF pledged their support for the committee to ensure the successful implementation of these reforms and to collaborate closely to address any challenges.