According to Channels Television, Amid ongoing discussions on a new minimum wage for Nigerian workers, the Nigeria Governors’ Forum has emphasized that it is still assessing what states can sustainably afford to pay.
Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, Chairman of the Forum, stated that the 37-member tripartite committee for the national minimum wage is still deliberating. He highlighted the need for governors to review their fiscal space and the potential impact of various recommendations before reaching a decision.
While committed to the process, the governors assured that better wages will result from the ongoing negotiations.
Despite the proposal by organised labour for a monthly minimum wage of N615,000, the governors are yet to reach a conclusion. Labour unions argue that the demand is justifiable considering the country's economic realities. They suggest that states should prioritize areas like mechanised agriculture to enhance self-sufficiency and alleviate economic challenges.
Although the tripartite committee hasn't finalized its work, the Federal Government assured workers that any new minimum wage agreed upon would take effect from May 1, 2024. However, the deadline for the government to present a realistic proposal has been set for May 31, 2024, by organised labour.