States Yet to Approve 70,000 Naira Minimum Wage: Zamfara, Sokoto, Osun, Cross River, Imo, Plateau, Taraba, and FCT Hold Out

As the implementation of the 70,000 Naira minimum wage continues to make headlines across Nigeria, several states have yet to approve or adopt the new wage structure for their workers. Despite widespread approval in many parts of the country, eight states, as well as the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), remain resistant to the move.

The states yet to approve the new minimum wage include:

1. Zamfara
2. Sokoto
3. Osun
4. Cross River
5. Imo
6. Plateau
7. Taraba
8. Federal Capital Territory (FCT)

These states have not yet agreed to implement the 70,000 Naira minimum wage, citing various economic challenges and budgetary constraints. The ongoing discussions are a key point of concern for public sector workers, labor unions, and citizens, as they await resolutions that will ensure fair wages across the country.

What is the 70,000 Naira Minimum Wage?

The 70,000 Naira minimum wage was introduced by the Nigerian government as part of a nationwide effort to increase the income of public sector workers and address inflation and rising living costs. The wage increase aims to uplift the standard of living for workers in various sectors, including education, healthcare, and civil service.

Why the Delay?

Several factors are contributing to the delay in adoption by these states. Economic instability, state-level financial struggles, and concerns over the sustainability of the wage increase have been cited as reasons for holding back approval. Some states are negotiating with labor unions to determine a more feasible wage structure based on their individual economic capabilities.

What Happens Next?

As the debate over the new wage continues, it is clear that the states yet to approve the minimum wage will face increasing pressure from labor unions, civil society groups, and the general public to take action. The hope is that more states will soon come on board to ensure that workers across the country benefit from a living wage that matches the rising cost of living.

Stay tuned for updates on the ongoing negotiations and how they might impact the Nigerian workforce in the coming months.