The Governor of Osun State, Ademola Adeleke, has urged for a reevaluation of the Federation Account Revenue sharing formula and the reclassification of solid minerals from the exclusive to the concurrent legislative list.
Adeleke, who represents the South West at the National Tripartite Minimum Wage committee, made these appeals during the South West zonal public hearing on the new national minimum wage in Lagos.
Speaking to labour leaders and delegates, Governor Adeleke stressed the need for a balanced approach to enhancing the welfare of Nigerian workers. He highlighted the consensus on the necessity for an upward review of the National Minimum Wage, citing the existing one as unrealistic.
He specifically called on the National Assembly through the Revenue Mobilization Allocation and Fiscal Commission (RMAFC) to reassess the revenue-sharing ratio objectively and realistically.
Furthermore, he advocated for the removal of solid minerals from the exclusive legislative list, pointing out the wealth of natural resources in every state of Nigeria.
Governor Adeleke expressed support for an improved minimum wage, stating that Osun State is in favor of a realistic and sustainable wage structure within available resources. However, he acknowledged the varying financial capacities of states, suggesting that individual states negotiate with their workers to determine a realistic and sustainable minimum wage.
During the public hearing, Comrade Mike Aremu, Director General of Michael Imoudu Labour Institute, commended Governor Adeleke for his pro-labour policies, suggesting he deserves a labor fellowship award.
Aremu also emphasized the need for labor leaders to consider the principles of affordability and sustainability in pursuing the new minimum wage.
The zonal public hearing was chaired by the Minister of Finance and the Coordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr. Wale Edun.
