N70,000 Minimum Wage: Governors To Meet, Await Details

Following President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s announcement of a new national minimum wage of ₦70,000, state governors are set to convene to deliberate on the federal government's decision. Although some governors have expressed their willingness to implement the new wage, they are collectively awaiting further details before making a final decision.

Governors' Forum Meeting

The 36 state governors, under the Nigerian Governors' Forum (NGF), are scheduled to meet soon to discuss the new wage policy. Sources from the Government Houses and top government officials indicate that governors are keen on understanding the specifics of the new wage before publicly committing to it.

Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, who chairs the NGF, has not yet commented on the new policy. A source close to the NGF stated that AbdulRazaq and his colleagues will need time for consultations before making an official stance.

State Responses

• Anambra State: Governor Peter Mbah’s aide mentioned that the state executive council will review the new wage policy. Mbah aims to ensure that funds are used efficiently and that only legitimate workers are paid.

• Benue State: Governor Hyacinth Alia has committed to implementing the new wage, citing efforts to block financial leakages and improve internally generated revenue.

• Enugu State: Governor Ifeanyi Ugwuanyi’s press secretary noted that they are waiting for a formal position from Governor Chukwuma Soludo.

• Oyo State: Governor Seyi Makinde has confirmed that his administration will adhere to the new wage, as promised.

• Imo State: Governor Hope Uzodimma’s administration has pledged to comply with the new wage policy while seeking ways to meet workers' expectations.

• Borno State: Governor Babagana Umara Zulum has assured adherence to any agreements reached between labor and the federal government.

• Gombe State: Governor Inuwa Yahaya’s media aide stated that it is too early to comment, as they await reactions from the Northern Governors Forum.

Federal Government and NLC Position

A senior Ministry of Labour and Employment official clarified that the governors were represented in the Tripartite Negotiating Committee, and the new wage will become law once passed by the National Assembly and assented to by the president.

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has accepted the ₦70,000 minimum wage, despite it being lower than their initial demand. The NLC's communique acknowledged the need to avoid further increases in petrol prices, which would have compounded the economic burden on Nigerians.

The governors' collective stance and the eventual implementation of the wage will be crucial in shaping the country’s economic landscape and addressing workers' welfare.