The Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) has assured Nigerians and organized labour groups that ongoing negotiations will lead to a better minimum wage. Despite rejecting the Federal Government’s proposed N62,000 wage, citing financial constraints for some states, the governors are committed to finding a solution. Organized labour continues to demand a wage of N250,000.
Following the Federal Executive Council’s decision to postpone the minimum wage discussion to allow President Bola Tinubu to conduct broader consultations, the NGF held an emergency meeting. A communiqué released after the meeting, signed by NGF acting Director of Media, Ahmed Salihu, detailed the discussions and the commitment to engage with stakeholders for a mutually acceptable solution.
The communiqué highlighted a presentation from the Minister of Women Affairs on the World Bank-Nigeria for Women Project Scale-Up. The governors emphasized the importance of implementing this project at the state level, as originally intended, to empower women and promote gender equality.
The governors also discussed the new national minimum wage, reiterating their dedication to the negotiation process. They assured that the outcome would result in better wages for workers.
During the meeting, the governors received the Acting Country Director of the World Bank, Mr. Taimur Samad, and his team. They discussed various ongoing projects, including the HOPE Series of Projects, Nigeria Human Capital Opportunities for Prosperity and Equality, Food and Nutrition Security, Nigeria for Women Project Scale-Up (NFWP-SU), Nigeria Community Action for Resilience and Economic Stimulus Programme (NG-CARES), State Action on Business Enabling Reforms Program (SABER), and Sustainable Power and Irrigation for Nigeria Project (SPIN). The governors pledged to support these programs to ensure their effectiveness across the country.
Additionally, the governors received a briefing from Mr. Taiwo Oyedele, Chairman of the Presidential Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms Committee. Oyedele highlighted progress on fiscal policy and tax reforms, seeking the governors’ input and support. The governors pledged to collaborate closely with the committee to ensure successful implementation and address any arising challenges.
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