CurrentReport Blog Governor Biodun Oyebanji of Ekiti State emphasized that the Nigerian Governors’ Forum (NGF) is not opposed to implementing a living wage for Nigerian workers, as long as it aligns with each state’s financial capacity. Speaking at the 7th Quadrennial Delegates Conference of the Association of Senior Civil Servants of Nigeria (ASCSN) in Ado-Ekiti, Governor Oyebanji clarified the NGF’s stance on the issue of wage reform and fiscal federalism.
Governor Oyebanji stated, “The NGF is not against the living wage, no Governor is against the minimum wage, but what we are saying is that it must reflect fiscal federalism, ability, and capacity to pay. No Governor wants to retrench.” He further explained that states need to balance wage increases with their revenue streams to avoid downsizing their workforce.
Fiscal Federalism and Wage Sustainability
The governor’s remarks highlight the ongoing dialogue between state governments and the federal government regarding wage policies. The NGF advocates for a system where states have the autonomy to set wages that reflect their unique economic situations. “If there is a minimum wage today without a concurrent increment in what we are earning, no state can pay,” Oyebanji noted, emphasizing the need for a sustainable approach to wage increases.
Agricultural Initiatives for Economic Diversification
In addition to discussing wage policies, Governor Oyebanji encouraged civil servants in Ekiti State to engage in agriculture as part of his administration’s efforts to diversify the state’s economy. He announced the clearing of over 2,000 hectares of land, which will be distributed free of charge to residents interested in farming.
“My appeal to civil servants is that those who would like to be part of our Agriculture Revolution should form themselves into cooperative societies and approach the Ministry of Agriculture for support,” said Oyebanji. He stressed the benefits of forming cooperatives, which will receive inputs and support from the state and have guaranteed markets for their produce.
Civil Servants: Pillars of Ekiti State’s Development
Governor Oyebanji praised civil servants for their crucial role in the state’s administration, calling them “critical stakeholders” and “the propelling force of the state’s machinery.” He attributed the successes of his administration’s initiatives to the dedication and effectiveness of the state’s workforce.
He reiterated the importance of civil servants in achieving the Six Pillars of his administration, a strategic framework guiding Ekiti’s development. “Whatever compliments the administration has received today as a result of its various achievements in office can only be directly attributed to the efficiency and effectiveness of the workers,” he concluded.
