Senate President, Sen. Godswill Akpabio, stated on Monday that the new national minimum wage is applicable nationwide.
Akpabio made this announcement during the signing ceremony of the Minimum Wage Act (Amendment) Bill into law by President Bola Tinubu at the State House.
He explained that the updated minimum wage applies to the Federal Government, states, local governments, the private sector, and individual employers.
“This is a significant day for workers across the country. We are not only doubling the minimum wage but also adding more. It was previously N30,000, and now it is N70,000.
“Remember, this is a minimum wage, not a maximum. Employers who have the capacity can pay more if they wish. However, no Nigerian worker will earn less than N70,000 starting today.
“That is the essence of this legislation. It is applicable nationwide. We are thrilled that this is happening now, thanks to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who is committed to Nigerian workers,” he said.
Akpabio noted that the National Assembly passed the bill quickly in a single day due to their enthusiasm.
“We felt it was crucial to act promptly. I believe the workers are pleased. I also want to address those attempting to incite unrest. You have a right to protest, which is constitutionally protected.
“However, you do not have the right to destabilize the country. The right to protest should not be misused to justify violence. It’s evident that those behind this are elusive and faceless,” Akpabio added.
He clarified that the current difficulties faced by Nigerians were not caused by the Tinubu administration, which is only a year old. Instead, they are the result of long-standing insecurity issues.
“The President has responded to these challenges. All food imports will now come in without restrictions, as Nigerians need to eat, and many items are being imported with waivers.
“I am pleased that the government is fulfilling its duties, and we in the National Assembly are addressing our constituencies’ needs,” he said.
Akpabio urged the youth not to be misled politically, stressing that property destruction incurs costs for Nigeria.
He mentioned that the bill to fund the new minimum wage is progressing well and is expected to be signed into law by Wednesday.
Prof. Julius Ihonvbere, representing Alhaji Tajudeen Abbas, Speaker of the House of Representatives, remarked that the President’s action demonstrated a commitment to the Nigerian people.
“This increase from N30,000 to N70,000 and the reduction of the negotiation period from five to three years reflect a strong commitment to reposition Nigeria for success,” he said.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that on July 18, President Tinubu raised the Federal Government’s national minimum wage offer from N62,000 to N70,000, with a promise to review it in three years instead of five.
The President noted that the labor leaders challenged leadership perspectives, prompting the government to approve the new N70,000 minimum wage. (NAN)
