The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Governors’ Forum has announced its full support for the new minimum wage agreed upon by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC). This declaration comes amid ongoing discussions and negotiations concerning the financial wellbeing of workers in the country.
Initially, the labour unions demanded a minimum wage of ₦250,000, a significant increase aimed at addressing the rising cost of living and economic hardship faced by workers. The federal government, however, proposed a more modest figure of ₦62,000. This proposal was met with resistance from the Nigerian Governors Forum, while the PDP governors felt it was insufficient to meet the needs of the working populace.
In a move to show their concern for the current economic difficulties in the country, the PDP governors have decided to align themselves with the labour unions’ demands. They have expressed their willingness to support and implement any amount agreed upon between the federal government and the labour unions.
The PDP governors’ forum has also thrown its weight behind the federal government’s stance on granting autonomy to local governments. This move is seen as a step towards decentralizing power and improving governance at the grassroots level.
The forum’s meeting, which took place in Enugu and lasted over four hours, concluded with a press briefing led by Bauchi State Governor and Chairman of the PDP Governors’ Forum, Bala Mohammed. During the briefing, Governor Mohammed reiterated the PDP governors’ commitment to the welfare of Nigerian workers and called for a political solution to the ongoing crisis in Rivers State between Governor Sim Fubara and his predecessor, Nyesom Wike.
Governor Mohammed emphasized the need for unity and collaboration among political leaders to resolve internal conflicts and focus on governance that benefits the people. The PDP governors’ support for the new minimum wage and local government autonomy highlights their commitment to addressing key issues affecting the nation’s workforce and governance structure.
