The governors argue that the proposed wage increase is neither realistic nor sustainable. Implementing it, they claim, would compel some states to resort to borrowing just to meet payroll demands.

“The Nigeria Governors’ Forum (NGF) is in agreement that a new minimum wage is due,” the statement reads. “The Forum also sympathizes with labor unions in their push for higher wages. However, the Forum urges all parties to consider the fact that the minimum wage negotiations also involve consequential adjustments across all cadres, including pensioners."

The NGF further cautioned that these negotiations should focus on more than just signing a document for the sake of it. “Any agreement to be signed should be sustainable and realistic,” the statement emphasizes.