According to a recent report, Kebbi State Governor Nasir Idris has announced his readiness to pay whatever minimum wage is agreed upon by the federal government, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), and the Trade Union Congress (TUC), a move that has been warmly welcomed by workers in the state.
While some governors have declared that they cannot afford the proposed N62,000 minimum wage, Governor Idris has distinguished himself by expressing his willingness to comply with any amount President Tinubu’s administration agrees to with the NLC and TUC.
Currently, the federal government has proposed a minimum wage of N62,000, but organized labor has rejected this and is demanding N250,000.
In a morning interview with the British Broadcasting Corporation (BBC), Governor Idris mentioned that he was unaware of any meeting where governors collectively decided they couldn’t afford the N62,000 minimum wage. He emphasized his commitment to paying the agreed-upon amount.
“I was not part of the meeting, if it even took place, and I will not be among those who refuse to pay the agreed minimum wage. As I have said in various public forums, I will pay the agreed amount, and I stand by that,” Idris stated.
Governor Idris reiterated his dedication to prioritizing the welfare of Kebbi workers. As a former unionist and a member of the negotiating committee, he assured that he will continue to advocate for better pay for Nigerian workers. He urged both the federal government and organized labor to make compromises to reach a common, acceptable, and sustainable living wage.
Governor Idris pledged to implement the agreed sum for Kebbi workers, highlighting his ongoing commitment to their welfare. This stance contrasts with other governors who have claimed they cannot afford to pay the N62,000 minimum wage, regardless of any agreements reached between labor and the federal government.