Statement by the National President of ALGON on the Inability of Local Councils to Afford the New Minimum Wage
The Association of Local Government of Nigeria (ALGON) stated that due to the limited funds received from the Federation Account, the proposed N62,000 new minimum wage is unaffordable for local councils.
Mr. Aminu Muazu-Maifata, the National President of ALGON, explained to reporters in Lafia, the capital of Nasarawa state, on Monday, June 10, that the 774 Local Government Councils in the country only receive approximately 18% of their monthly allocation from the Federation Account, which is insufficient to cover the N62,000 minimum wage.
He said;
“Apart from payment of wages, we still have other responsibilities such as provision of affordable healthcare, education, security, traditional institution, rural roads as well as youths and women empowerment among others to contend with.”
Maifata, who noted that council chairmen supported a wage increment for civil servants, also requested an increase in the monthly allocations of the 774 Local Government Areas (LGAs) in the country to facilitate payment of the proposed minimum wage. He also called for:
Amendment of the constitution to standardize the tenure of office for LGA officials nationwide for smooth administration.
Pledged that the association would collaborate with other stakeholders to ensure the full implementation of area councils autonomy as stipulated in the country’s constitution.
The Chairman of Lafia Local Government Area of Nasarawa State said;
“The tenure of office of LGAs officials should be made four years to enable them deliver on their campaign promises to the electorate. The tenure is three years in some states and two years in some other states which is not good for the administration at the local councils.”
Discover more from Afric Showbiz
Subscribe to get the latest posts sent to your email.
