The Nigeria Governors Forum (NGF) has voiced its opposition to the proposed N60,000 minimum wage, stating that it is not feasible and could lead to financial challenges for many states.
In a statement released by the NGF’s acting Director on Media and Public Affairs, Hajiya Halimah Salihu Ahmed, the forum acknowledged the necessity of a new minimum wage but emphasized the importance of reaching a sustainable and realistic agreement. The NGF expressed concerns that implementing the proposed wage would exhaust states’ funds on salaries, leaving insufficient resources for development projects.
The NGF’s stance comes in the wake of organized labor’s suspension of its strike, following commitments from the Federal Government to raise the minimum wage to an amount higher than N60,000. The agreement between the government and labor also includes assurances against worker victimization due to participation in the strike.
While the Federal Government has pledged to work towards a higher minimum wage, the NGF urges all parties involved to consider the broader socioeconomic implications and reach an agreement that is fair and sustainable for all stakeholders.