The Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, emphasized on Wednesday that governors, represented by the Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF), support the idea of a living wage for Nigerian workers but are advocating for fiscal federalism to enable states to pay it.
Oyebanji clarified that the NGF is not opposing a living wage but is pushing for states to have the financial capability to sustain it. This statement comes amidst ongoing disputes between organized labor and the Federal Government regarding the implementation of a new minimum wage.
The government-appointed tripartite committee recommended a new minimum wage of N62,000 to President Bola Tinubu. However, the governors argued that most states could not afford this amount and suggested a revised minimum wage of N57,000. Organized labor rejected both recommendations and proposed a N250,000 minimum wage during the committee’s final meeting.
As President Tinubu initiated discussions with the NGF and employers, labor organizations criticized the governors for being insensitive to workers’ needs.
Speaking in Ado Ekiti at the Seventh Quadrennial Delegates’ Conference of the Association of Senior Civil Servants of Nigeria, Oyebanji stated that no state intends to reduce its workforce. He highlighted the necessity for each state to determine an affordable wage to avoid retrenchment.
“The NGF is not against a living wage. No governor opposes the minimum wage, but it must reflect fiscal federalism, with states having the ability and capacity to pay. No governor wants to retrench workers. Without an increase in state revenue, it is impossible to pay a higher minimum wage,” Oyebanji explained.
He further addressed civil servants, urging those interested in agricultural ventures to form cooperative societies and seek support from the Ministry of Agriculture. “We are offering various opportunities for cooperatives, including free land clearing, inputs, and guaranteed purchase of produce. Over 2,000 hectares have already been cleared across Ekiti State,” he said.
Oyebanji acknowledged the crucial role civil servants play in the state’s development, particularly in achieving the administration’s six pillars. He attributed the administration’s successes to the efficiency and effectiveness of the workforce.
“I am here today to connect with you as key stakeholders and to learn from your experiences. The civil service is a hub of talent, encompassing professionals from various fields. This conference is an opportunity for us to exchange ideas and share knowledge. I am not just a special guest of honor; I am here as a student of Public Administration,” the governor concluded.
