BY FATIMA M SANI, SEPTEMBER 4, 2024 | 9:59PM
The implementation of the new national minimum wage is a crucial step towards improving the livelihoods of civil servants in Borno State, who have been affected by the economic challenges posed by the insurgency.
The minimum wage ensures a fair and decent income for workers, enabling them to meet their basic needs and support their families.
In a significant move, Borno State Governor, Prof. Babagana Umara Zulum, has approved the constitution of a committee to discuss the modalities for implementing the newly signed national minimum wage.
The committee, chaired by Engr. Babagana Mustapha Malumbe, commissioner for budget and planning, with the Head of Service, Barr. Mallam Fannami, as co-chair, was constituted following the enactment of the new Minimum Wage Act signed into law by President Bola Tinubu.
The Act established a national minimum wage of N70,000, agreed upon with organized labour unions.
According to a statement released by the Secretary to the Borno State Government (SSG) on Wednesday, the committee consists of 12 members from the government side, including the following members, Barr. Hauwa Abubakar, the Attorney-General and Commissioner for Justice, Alhaji Basha Kachalla Talba, the Permanent Secretary of Finance & Economic Development and Dr. Muhammad Aminu Ghuluze, the Permanent Secretary of Admin. & General Services, among others.
The committee will also have representation from the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC).
Members from the labour side include Comr. Yusuf Inuwa, the NLC Chairman, Comr. Babayo Hamma, TUC Chairman, and Comr. Umar Abdullahi the JNC Chairman.
Abubakar Ibrahim, the State Controller of Labour, from the Federal Ministry of Labour, will serve as an observer.
The committee is tasked with several responsibilities, including analyzing the federal government's salary adjustment and determining the feasibility of applying these changes at the state level, considering the state's specific circumstances.
Additionally, the committee will explore other relevant factors to ensure a fair and sustainable salary adjustment for civil servants in Borno State.
Gov. Zulum, while congratulating the committee members on their appointment, urged them to commence work immediately to ensure the timely and effective implementation of the new minimum wage across the state.
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