In regards to the new national minimum wage for Nigerian workers, Nasarawa State Governor, Abdullahi Sule, mentioned that governors are open to the idea.
He mentioned that the implementation of the new wage is contingent upon the resolutions put forth by the tripartite committee appointed by the Presidency.
Contrary to claims suggesting a lack of cooperation from state governors in terms of universal payment, Sule dismissed such assertions.
Concerns have arisen in certain circles regarding many states’ capacities to agree upon and feasibly pay the proposed new minimum wage set by the Tripartite Committee on Minimum Wage.
Reports sparked heightened concerns when some governors expressed unease over Edo State Governor, Godwin Obaseki’s decision to raise the minimum wage in his state to N70,000.
Further clarifying his stance on the matter, Sule, after a closed-door meeting with Vice President Kashim Shettima, conveyed his personal views on the issue and also addressed the security situation in Nasarawa State.
He emphasized that he was unaware of any state facing challenges in paying the previous minimum wage rate, stating that Nasarawa has been upholding the N30,000 minimum wage since 2019, along with providing promotions, gratuities, and other benefits for workers.
Regarding discussions on reviewing workers’ salaries, Sule mentioned that governors are in agreement, waiting on the outcomes of a committee established by the federal government to work on minimum wage adjustments.
Sule articulated, “We are focused on the well-being of workers. We are even providing special allowances like hazard allowance, particularly for our healthcare workers. I cannot speak on behalf of all governors. Our chairman, the Governor of Kwara, is the authorized spokesperson for the governors and will address the topic in due time.
“It is inaccurate to say that governors are uninterested or uncooperative. Our message is consistent – there is a federal government committee dedicated to minimum wage matters.
“We await the committee’s findings, which will encompass both federal and state governments, as well as the organized private sector. Until the recommendations are presented, we are refraining from preemptive actions,” Sule remarked.
On the topic of state security, Sule reassured that Nasarawa State offers a safe environment for investments and agricultural ventures, dispelling security concerns. He cited the establishment of a lithium factory by foreign investors as a testament to the area’s operational safety following years of construction.
Labeling Nasarawa as the safest state for agricultural and other activities, Sule attributed the success to enhanced security measures, such as major road constructions and the establishment of a military super-camp.
Supporting his claims, Sule highlighted the state’s accomplishments in agriculture, ranking first in sesame farming, second in yam and cassava production, and fifth in rice production nationwide, urging skeptics to verify these facts independently.
Discussing security improvements, Sule noted, “In addressing security concerns, we dedicated efforts to stabilize the region. Critical infrastructure projects, including major road constructions and a military presence via a super-camp, have successfully eliminated threats posed by bandits and kidnappers in the area.
“Nasarawa State is widely recognized as a secure hub for agricultural activities. In recent years, we have led in various agricultural sectors. Presently, we dominate sesame farming nationally and hold significant ranks in yam, cassava, and rice production.
“These achievements underscore the reality on the ground, which can be independently verified. While occasional security incidents occur, Nasarawa State also boasts ongoing oil drilling activities without any recorded security events,” he added.
Regarding his meeting with the Vice President, Sule divulged the discussion focused on the impending commissioning of a lithium factory in the state, expressing optimism about President Bola Tinubu’s potential presence at the event on Friday.
“The meeting revolved around two key topics: Our extensive efforts in agriculture, which the Vice President actively follows to ensure progress. Additionally, we addressed the upcoming commissioning of the lithium factory scheduled for Friday, wherein the President is anticipated to officiate the ceremony,” Sule shared.