BEVERLY HILLS, May 03, (THEWILL) – The National Chairman of the All Progressives Congress (APC), John Odigie-Oyegun, has counselled that increase in minimum wage should be determined by the economy conditions of various states and the executive arm of government.
He gave the counsel as he responded to questions posed by journalists at the party’s national secretariat in Abuja on Tuesday.
“As for the demand increase of minimum wage, it is a matter for the Executive, it is a matter for the Economy and the Executive at Federal and State Levels will have to consider the demand in line with their abilities to pay and of course in line with reasonable demand of workers improved conditions. This (wages increments) must be based with the Economic realities on ground, that’s, the ability to pay,” he said.
“It shouldn’t be a Federal matter, State should be allowed to make their decisions based on their abilities to pay. The cost of living are not the same in every part of the country.
“One state has made a decision and this will tell other states to talk to their workers and let them see their ability to pay and then decide accordingly. The Federal government should decide based on the reality on ground and make a decision too.”
“I can say the merger of ministries brought a lot of questions as to whether Federal Boards will not also be merged. These processes are being looked into and I can assure you that much sooner than later, the announcement (for the appointments of Federal Board Members) will start soon.”
Story by David Oputah
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