States should be allowed to pay Minimum Wage according to their financial capacity — Governors
States should be allowed to pay Minimum Wage according to their financial capacity — Governors
The Southern Governors’ Forum has issued a series of resolutions following their meeting in Abeokuta, Ogun State, on Monday.
They advocated the need for each state to consider its ability to pay the new minimum wage and proposed that states negotiate directly with labour unions.
The Forum also called for stronger fiscal federalism and devolution of powers, expressing concern over mineral licenses being issued without involving state governments.
This practice has led to criminal activities, environmental degradation, and no revenue for affected states or the Federal Government.
Recognising their region’s economic significance, the governors addressed inadequate power supply by leveraging recent constitutional amendments allowing states to regulate electricity.
They also advocated for transitioning from fossil fuels to cleaner energy sources like Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) and Electric Vehicles (EVs) to reduce transportation costs and enhance affordability of goods and services.
Additionally, they urged the Federal Government to rehabilitate major roads and transfer some to interested states. They praised President Tinubu for initiating the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Road project. The governors committed to developing a regional multimodal transport plan to improve connectivity and facilitate movement of people, goods, and services.
A Southern States Development Agenda (SSDA) was proposed to stimulate trade, investment, sustainable growth, and food security. This agenda will collaborate with state investment agencies, the Nigeria Investment Promotion Commission, and other relevant bodies.
Regarding security, the governors reiterated support for state police and community-based security outfits. They affirmed their unity and commitment to fostering intra-regional trade, partnerships, and investment through structured collaboration.
The Forum concluded by announcing quarterly meetings to be rotated among member states to sustain dialogue and action on regional development issues.
