The Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) has reassured the Nigeria Labour Congress, Trade Union Congress, and workers of its commitment to an improved and sustainable minimum wage. Despite recent proposals by labour organizations for a significant increase, the NGF emphasized the ongoing consultations and assessments being conducted by the tripartite committee tasked with reviewing the National Minimum Wage.
In a communique issued after a virtual meeting, NGF Chairman AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq highlighted the forum’s dedication to arriving at an implementable national minimum wage that considers each state government’s fiscal capacity and the potential impact of various proposals. The forum acknowledged the patience and dedication of workers and reiterated its commitment to the negotiation process, promising that better wages would be the outcome.
Additionally, the NGF commended outgoing World Bank Country Director Shubham Chaudhuri for his contributions and welcomed incoming Country Director Ndiame Diop. Chaudhuri lauded the forum’s non-partisan character and professionalism, expressing confidence in Diop’s leadership.
The NGF discussed various developmental initiatives, including the revised National Policy on Justice and the National Human Capital Development (HCD) Program. Members pledged support for the effective implementation of proposed revisions to the national HCD strategy, aiming to scale up impact across health, nutrition, education, and labor force participation.
The forum also expressed condolences to the Governors of Rivers State and Ogun State following recent incidents involving petrol tanker and gas explosions.