Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), George Akume, has criticized the demand for a ₦100,000 minimum wage by organized labour, deeming it unrealistic. Speaking in Abuja during a meeting with the National Executive Council of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Akume expressed concerns over his ability to afford such a wage for his four drivers.
Amid ongoing negotiations, Akume highlighted the government’s focus on economic productivity and stability in determining a new national minimum wage. He emphasized the need for balanced economic policies, stating that merely demanding higher wages without considering productivity is not sustainable.
Akume also condemned the shutdown of the national grid during a recent strike, labeling it a treasonable offence and economic sabotage. He assured the government’s commitment to an acceptable minimum wage, citing previous efforts such as implementing a ₦35,000 wage and deploying palliatives to alleviate economic hardship.
Additionally, Akume called for collaboration between the government and the church in providing essential services, stressing the importance of a symbiotic relationship between the two entities.