The Nigeria Governors' Forum (NGF) has expressed anxieties concerning the sustainability of the proposed national minimum wage of 60,000 naira for state employees, citing the challenging economic climate.
The Forum acknowledges the need for a revised minimum wage and sympathises with labour unions advocating for an increase. However, a statement released by Halima Ahmed Yakubu, Acting Director of Media and Press Affairs for the NGF, urges all stakeholders involved to consider the wider ramifications.
Negotiations for a higher minimum wage would necessitate adjustments in remuneration across all employee levels, including pensioners.
The NGF emphasises the importance of reaching a sustainable and realistic agreement, cautioning against simply signing a document for the sake of formality.
They warn that paying the current minimum wage may leave states with no resources for development, potentially forcing them to incur debt solely to meet payroll obligations.
The NGF appeals to all parties, particularly labour unions, to consider the complex socio-economic factors at play. Their ultimate objective should be a solution that is sustainable, long-lasting, and equitable for all segments of Nigerian society who rely on public funds.
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