President Bola Tinubu has urged governors across Nigeria to uphold their commitment to paying workers’ wages as wage negotiations for a new minimum wage continue. Speaking at the inauguration of the Food Security and Agricultural Mechanization Programme in Niger State, President Tinubu emphasized the importance of ensuring citizens’ well-being during this period of economic transition.
The event, which marked the deployment of cutting-edge agricultural machinery and technology for large-scale agro-value chain development in Niger State, underscored the government’s dedication to achieving food sufficiency and promoting sustainable economic growth.
In his address, President Tinubu commended the leadership of the Niger State government for its proactive approach to agricultural development. He reiterated Nigeria’s capacity to feed its population and even have surplus for export, emphasizing the need to leverage existing resources and technology to achieve this goal.
President Tinubu also expressed empathy for the challenges faced by farmers, particularly in dealing with issues such as cattle encroachment on farmlands. He pledged to work with state governments to address these challenges, calling for collaborative efforts to ensure a conducive environment for agriculture to thrive.
Addressing the issue of workers’ welfare, President Tinubu urged governors to implement wage awards in their states as an immediate intervention measure. He emphasized the importance of alleviating the burden on citizens, particularly in light of ongoing discussions regarding the minimum wage.
Acknowledging the complexity of the economic landscape, President Tinubu reassured Nigerians of his administration’s commitment to implementing comprehensive programmes aimed at addressing key socio-economic challenges. He highlighted initiatives such as the student loan programme, unemployment benefits for graduates, and social security benefits for the elderly and vulnerable as part of the government’s efforts to enhance the welfare of citizens.
While reiterating his appeal to governors to prioritize workers’ welfare, President Tinubu underscored the importance of collective action in achieving sustainable development across the country. He called on the National Economic Council (NEC) to adopt measures that support workers and promote economic stability.
The President’s remarks come at a crucial time as Nigeria navigates through economic transitions and seeks to address pressing socio-economic issues. By emphasizing the importance of workers’ welfare and collaborative efforts in achieving food security and economic growth, President Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to fostering prosperity and well-being for all Nigerians.
In addition to inaugurating the Food Security and Agricultural Mechanization Programme, President Tinubu also engaged in discussions with former Nigerian Heads of State, General Ibrahim Badamasi Babangida, and General Abdulsalami Abubakar. These interactions underscored the importance of unity and collaboration in advancing the nation’s interests and fostering sustainable development.