In Abuja, Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, voiced concerns over the ongoing demands for a higher minimum wage by organized labour, labeling them as unrealistic.
Speaking during a meeting with the National Executive Council of the Christian Association of Nigeria (CAN), Akume highlighted the financial challenges he faces, especially in meeting the proposed wage increase.
During the session, Akume appealed to the Christian community for support as negotiations on the minimum wage progress.
He emphasized the difficulty of meeting the proposed wage increase, citing an example of his own predicament, stating, “I can’t afford to pay my driver one hundred thousand because they are four.”
He expressed skepticism about the feasibility of the demands made by organized labour, questioning the source of funds to meet such wage increases.
Earlier, Akume had criticized organized labour for shutting down the national grid during the recent nationwide strike, describing it as treasonous.
These remarks from the SGF reflect the ongoing tension and negotiations surrounding the minimum wage issue in the country.