President Tinubu announces new minimum wage for workers

In a recent interview on Channels Television’s Politics Today, Ajuri Ngelale, the special adviser on media and publicity to President Bola Tinubu, provided insights into the forthcoming changes in Nigeria’s minimum wage landscape. Ngelale revealed that President Tinubu’s administration is actively working to implement a new minimum wage policy that will potentially double the current salaries of workers.

Ngelale acknowledged the economic challenges faced by the Nigerian populace, particularly with the removal of subsidies. He emphasized that President Tinubu’s government is committed to alleviating these challenges through various measures, one of which is the revision of the minimum wage.

Addressing the matter of the minimum wage, Ngelale refrained from preempting the work of the minimum wage committee. However, he asserted, “the president will want nothing less than a doubling of the current minimum wage.” This statement signals a substantial increase in income for workers if the proposed policy is successfully implemented.

The presidential spokesperson also shed light on the financial landscape of the states, revealing that the administration has been proactive in providing support. Ngelale disclosed that since the start of President Tinubu’s tenure, governors across the federation have received a substantial sum of N300 billion. This financial support aims to bolster the states’ capacity to manage various economic challenges.

Furthermore, Ngelale shared the administration’s multifaceted approach to tackle the rising costs of food and energy. The federal government is actively engaging in initiatives to bring down the expenses incurred by citizens in these essential areas. The support extends to transport companies, agricultural interventions, and capitalization of small and medium-sized enterprises (SMEs). These efforts are expected to contribute to reducing the financial burden on Nigerians.

During the last National Economic Council (NEC) meeting, states reached a consensus to back the new minimum wage proposal. This collective agreement underscores the unity among the states to uplift the standard of living for workers.

As discussions on the new minimum wage continue, Nigerians are eagerly anticipating the potential doubling of their current salaries. President Tinubu’s administration’s proactive approach to financial support for states and its commitment to easing the burden on citizens through various interventions show promise for a more economically stable future.

Credit: Vanguard