Minimum wage: Edun harps on stakeholders input to aid Govt make informed decisions

By Matthew Denis

The Honourable  Minister of  Finance and Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Wale Edun has harped on the contribution of stakeholders to the National Minimum Wage Public Hearing.

Speaking at the South-West edition held in Lagos yesterday, Edun said, “The main objective of this gathering is to ensure that our minimum wage reflects the evolving economic landscape, adequately addresses the wellbeing of our workforce, and of course the ability to pay in a sustainable manner.”

He stated, “Stakeholder input is invaluable in shaping policies that will not only impact the livelihoods of our citizens but also contribute to the overall economic growth and social well-being of our nation.”

The Minister stated further that, according to the provisions of the extant Act, the National Minimum Wage is to be reviewed every five years, and that the current minimum wage came into effect in April 2019, hence is due for review.

He added that, “As we gather here today, we must recognise the significance of this assignment and its multiplier effect on the lives of millions of hardworking citizens and our great country.”

“It is also our aim to engage with stakeholders from various sectors to gain insights, perspective and recommendations,” adding that “this inclusive approach underscores our commitment to transparency, fairness and democratic ideals.”

He emphasised that “The diversity of opinions present here today, which represent public and private sector workers, employers, trade unions, civil society and the broader public, will be a testament of the richness of our national dialogue.”

Edun explained that the “the committee is keenly interested in receiving well-researched position papers that will aid us in making informed decisions,” encouraging the participants to express their views openly, share their experiences and provide constructive suggestions.

While wishing the participants a fruitful and collaborative discussion, he commended the Governor and people of Lagos State for hosting the event, as well as all participants present to contribute to the process.

The Minister urged them to work together in harmony to ensure that the outcomes of this review reflect on our well thought out aspirations for the good of Nigeria and its citizens.

Earlier, the Governor of Lagos State, Babajide Sanwo-Olu ably represented by the Lagos State Head of Service, Olabode Abiru in his address said, “this Public Hearing serves as a platform for meaningful dialogue and collaboration and I am confident in our collective dialogue.”

Abiru went on to say, “As we deliberate on this issue, I assure you that we are committed to collaborating with other States and the Federal Government to arrive at a fair career wage structure that takes into account the diverse economic conditions across the nation.”

Osun State Governor, Senator Adeleke Ademola in his address reiterated his State’s commitment to a working living wage for workers, adding that, “workers deserve a good approved wage and salaries.”

In the same vein, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) in the South-West Zone ably represented by the Chairperson of the Lagos State chapter, Comrade Agnes Funmi Sessi, demanded the sum of N794,000 for workers in the Zone, noting that “the demand was jointly agreed on by all the members of the union from the South-West geo-political Zone.”

In her words, “workers must be well motivated and must be well paid.”