Dr. Nasir Idris, the Governor of Kebbi State, has addressed recent speculation regarding implementing the new N70,000 minimum wage and alleged salary deductions, News About Nigeria reports.
During a meeting with leaders of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC) at the Government House in Birnin Kebbi, Governor Idris clarified the state’s position on these matters.
The governor refuted claims that his administration was deducting money from workers’ salaries, dismissing such reports as “sponsored write-ups” aimed at misleading the public.
He said the state government is committed to workers’ welfare and would not engage in such practices.
Regarding the new minimum wage, Governor Idris explained that Kebbi State, along with other states, is still awaiting official guidelines from the federal government.
He cautioned against hasty implementation, citing concerns that workers could be shortchanged without proper federal directives.
“I’m not in a hurry, even though at the national level, all eyes are on me,” said Governor Idris, acknowledging his unique position as the only state governor with a labor background.
He stressed the importance of receiving official circulars from the Federal Government, the National Wages Commission, and the Revenue Mobilisation Allocation and Fiscal Commission before proceeding with any wage adjustments.
The governor also highlighted the traditional process where the NLC typically receives wage tables first before passing them on to state governments.
He expressed surprise at claims that workers were expected to receive the new minimum wage by August, pointing out that even the federal government has not yet begun payments.
Governor Idris promised that once the state received the official template from the federal government, his administration would engage with union leadership to agree on and implement the new minimum wage.
