The debate is over! Nigeria’s states have received a significant boost in federal funding, and according to Adewale Oyerinde, Director-General of the Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA), this means there’s absolutely no reason why they shouldn’t be paying the new ₦70,000 minimum wage. Buckle up, here’s the breakdown:
- Federal Funding Boost: States are getting more money from the federal government.
- No Excuses: With increased funds, states can’t claim they can’t afford the new minimum wage.
- Fiscal Discipline is Key: States need to manage their resources wisely to ensure everyone gets paid.
- Labor Unions: NLC and TUC need to step up their game and hold states accountable.
The Bottom Line: ₦70,000 Minimum Wage is Here to Stay
Adewale Oyerinde has made it clear: the ₦70,000 minimum wage isn’t up for debate. It’s the law of the land, and everyone, except those legally exempt, needs to get on board. Speaking to Arise News, he emphasized that states have no leg to stand on when they say they can’t afford it.
Why No State Can Claim Poverty
Oyerinde pointed out that the federal government has been consistently increasing allocations to state governments. This means more funds are flowing into state coffers. His message was clear: the money is there, now it’s just a matter of responsible financial management. No more ‘we don’t have the funds’ excuse.
This also makes it interesting, as previously, many state governments claimed the low revenue made it impossible to pay the previously suggested ₦30,000 minimum wage. The substantial increase to ₦70,000 is a big jump, but hopefully, the federal funding boost will cushion the blow.
Fiscal Prudence is the Name of the Game
It all comes down to how states handle their money. Oyerinde stressed that states need to be fiscally responsible to meet their wage obligations. This could mean reassessing spending, eliminating waste, and prioritizing their workforce. It’s time to get serious about financial discipline.
What About States That Drag Their Feet?
Oyerinde believes that the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) need to change their tactics. It’s not enough to just negotiate; they need to actively ensure that all states comply with the new minimum wage law. He urged them to come up with new strategies to hold state governments accountable.
The NLC and TUC have been instrumental in advocating for fair wages, and this will be another test of their strength and influence. They need to show they aren’t all bark and no bite!
Budget Adjustments
According to Oyerinde, state budgets should already reflect the new minimum wage. While some states may have missed including it in their 2024 financial plans, it is expected that these adjustments have been made or are being made now for the 2025 budget. It’s a critical step to make sure all workers get their due pay.
It’s worth noting that some states may have their budgets presented by the end of the year, and some as late as February the following year. So if the minimum wage hasn’t been incorporated in some states’ 2024 budgets, that’s not too late and could still be implemented now.
Minimum Wage Not Up For Negotiation
Despite economic challenges, Oyerinde reiterated that ₦70,000 is what it is. There was an agreement, and it must be honored. It’s not about discussing whether it’s viable; it’s about making sure the agreement is followed. Oyerinde called for all stakeholders to be accountable and stick to what was agreed.
In conclusion, the message is clear: the ₦70,000 minimum wage is a done deal, and no excuses will be accepted from states who try to circumvent it. States must prioritize workers’ welfare and ensure compliance for the good of the nation.