“Expect something better” — Governors forum assures Nigerians

The Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) has assured Nigerians and organized labor that ongoing negotiations will result in a better minimum wage. This follows the governors’ initial rejection of the Federal Government’s proposal of N62,000, citing the need for some states to borrow money to meet salary payments. Despite this, organized labor continues to demand a wage of N250,000.

An emergency meeting was held by the governors after the Federal Executive Council postponed the minimum wage discussion to allow President Bola Tinubu to conduct broader consultations.

A communiqué released after the meeting, signed by NGF acting Director of Media, Ahmed Salihu, indicated that the forum discussed various national issues, including the new national minimum wage. The governors committed to engaging with key stakeholders to reach a mutually acceptable solution.

Additionally, the forum received a presentation from the Minister of Women Affairs on the World Bank-Nigeria for Women Project Scale-Up and other ministry activities. The governors emphasized the importance of implementing this project at the state level and acknowledged the ministry’s efforts in promoting gender equality and social development.

The meeting also included discussions with the Acting Country Director of the World Bank, Mr. Taimur Samad, on various World Bank programs in Nigeria, and a briefing from Mr. Taiwo Oyedele, Chairman of the Presidential Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms Committee.

The governors expressed support for these initiatives and pledged to collaborate closely to ensure their success and address any challenges.