Will NLC actually continue to shut down states that are claiming they can’t afford to pay a minimum wage of 60k?
By : Abayomi ODUNOWO
The issue of minimum wage remains a hot topic in Nigeria, with each state having its own submission for the minimum wage in 2024. As we go through the 36 states of Nigeria in alphabetical order, it becomes evident that there is a wide disparity in the proposed minimum wages, ranging from as low as 30k in Zamfara to as high as 80k in Rivers.
Starting with Abia, the state has proposed a minimum wage of 40k, which is on the lower end of the spectrum. This is followed by Adamawa with 45k, Akwa Ibom with 65k, and Anambra with 50k. It is clear that some states are more generous than others when it comes to setting a minimum wage that can adequately support their civil servants.
Moving on to Bauchi, the state has also proposed a minimum wage of 40k, which is concerning given the rising cost of living in the country. Bayelsa, on the other hand, has proposed a much higher minimum wage of 65k, showing a commitment to providing a decent wage for its employees. Benue has proposed 48k, Borno with 70k, and Cross River with 65k, indicating a wide range of submissions from different states.
Delta has proposed 68k, which is on the higher side, while Ebonyi has proposed 40k, Edo with 70k, and Ekiti with 55k. Enugu has proposed 43k, Gombe with 45k, and Imo with 57k, showing a mix of submissions from different states. Jigawa has proposed 40k, Kaduna with 45k, Kano with 50k, and Katsina with 45k, showcasing the varying levels of commitment to providing a decent wage for civil servants.
Kebbi has proposed 40k, Kogi with 35k, and Kwara with 43k. Lagos has proposed a minimum wage of 75k, which is one of the highest submissions among the states. Nasarawa has proposed 40k, Niger with 45k, and Ogun with 65k, indicating a wide range of submissions from different states. Ondo has proposed 62k, Osun with 57k, and Oyo with 60k, showing a mix of submissions from different states.
Plateau has proposed 65k, Rivers with the highest submission of 80k, and Sokoto with 40k. Taraba has proposed 45k, Yobe with 42k, and Zamfara with the lowest submission of 30k. It is evident that there is a significant disparity in the proposed minimum wages across the 36 states of Nigeria.
The issue of minimum wage is crucial as it directly affects the livelihoods of civil servants who rely on their salaries to support themselves and their families. It is important for the executive governors of each state to consider the welfare of their employees and ensure that they are paid a decent wage that can cover their basic needs.
The varying submissions for minimum wage across the 36 states of Nigeria highlight the need for a more coordinated approach to setting a minimum wage that is fair and adequate for all civil servants. It is essential for the executive governors to prioritize the welfare of their employees and ensure that they are paid a decent wage that reflects the rising cost of living in the country. Ultimately, it is hoped that God will change the hearts of the governors and lead them to consider the needs of their civil servants in setting the minimum wage for 2024.
Otunba Abdulfalil Abayomi Odunowo
National Chairman AATSG
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