President Bola Tinubu has signaled that the federal government will set the minimum wage based on what it can reasonably afford, emphasizing the need for financial prudence.
In his Democracy Day address, President Tinubu informed the National Assembly to anticipate his proposal for a revised National Minimum Wage.
Speaking at the 25th Democracy Day Anniversary Dinner held at the State House Conference Centre in Abuja, Tinubu addressed the issue directly. Addressing National Assembly leaders, including Senate President Godswill Akpabio, he asserted that while the government would meet its obligations, it must also stay within its financial means.
“Senate President, Deputy Senate President, you’ll receive a notification regarding the minimum wage. We will proceed with it, but it will be based on what Nigeria can afford, what you can afford, what I can afford. They say you should cut your coat according to your size,” the President remarked.
Regarding a recent social media incident where he stumbled while boarding a vehicle for a parade, President Tinubu described the occurrence humorously, referring to it as a “dobale,” a Yoruba term for prostrating out of respect.
“As a traditional Yoruba ‘boy,’ I was doing dobale at the Eagles Square, demonstrating that democracy is worth falling for,” he explained.
“June 12 represents the heart and soul of our democratic struggle,” Tinubu continued, addressing the symbolic importance of the day.
At the event, several pro-democracy figures, including Professor Bolaji Akiyemi, Chief Segun Osoba, Senator Shehu Sani, and the Minister of Solid Minerals, Mr. Dele Alake, spoke, recalling Tinubu’s significant contributions to Nigeria’s democratic journey.
Also in attendance were prominent figures such as the National Security Adviser Nuhu Ribadu, Chief of Staff to the President Femi Gbajabiamila, and the Vice President’s wife, Nana Shettima. Other notable attendees included Babagana Kingibe, Chief Bisi Akande, and several state governors like Hope Uzodinma (Imo), Umo Eno (Akwa Ibom), and Uba Sani (Kaduna).