The Governors of the 36 states in Nigeria have collectively rejected the proposed N60,000 minimum wage put forward by the federal government. This decision was communicated by the Director Media and Public Affairs of the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF), Hajiya Halimah Salihu Ahmed, in a statement released on Friday, June 7.
According to the governors, the proposed N60,000 minimum wage is deemed unrealistic and unsustainable. They expressed concerns that implementing such a wage would potentially lead some states to resort to borrowing in order to meet their obligations of paying workers' salaries.
The statement issued by the NGF acknowledged the necessity of a new minimum wage and expressed solidarity with labor unions advocating for higher wages. However, it emphasized the importance of considering the broader implications of the wage increase, including adjustments for all cadres and pensioners.
The NGF urged all stakeholders involved in the negotiations to prioritize sustainability and realism in reaching an agreement. The governors highlighted the potential negative impact of the proposed wage, stating that it would significantly strain state finances, leaving little room for development initiatives.
In light of these concerns, the NGF called for a thorough consideration of socioeconomic factors and a commitment to finding a balanced and fair resolution that takes into account the interests of all segments of society.