The Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) has rejected the federal government’s proposed N60,000 minimum wage, deeming it unrealistic and unsustainable.
The NGF expressed concerns that implementing such a wage would force many states into borrowing to meet salary obligations.
In a statement issued on Friday, June 7, Hajiya Halimah Salihu Ahmed, NGF’s Director of Media and Public Affairs, acknowledged the need for a new minimum wage but stressed that the proposed figure could lead to fiscal strain. The NGF emphasized that while they sympathize with labor unions’ push for higher wages, any agreement must be sustainable and feasible across all levels of government, including pension adjustments.
“The NGF agrees that a new minimum wage is necessary and supports the labor unions’ call for improved wages,” the statement reads. “However, we urge a realistic and sustainable approach, as the proposed N60,000 would result in many states using their entire FAAC allocations just for salaries, leaving nothing for development.”
The NGF cautioned against adopting a wage structure that would compel states to rely on loans to meet payroll demands, warning this could hinder broader socioeconomic progress and development.
The governors appealed for a balanced agreement that considers the economic realities and the needs of all societal segments reliant on public resources.
