Senate President Godswill Akpabio praises President Tinubu for signing the N70,000 minimum wage bill into law, emphasizing it as a significant boost for Nigerian workers. Akpabio also addresses concerns over upcoming protests, urging peaceful demonstrations and caution against violence.
On Monday, President Bola Tinubu signed the National Minimum Wage Bill into law, officially implementing the newly agreed minimum wage of N70,000. The signing ceremony, held at the Council Chambers of the Presidential Villa in Abuja, was attended by top National Assembly leaders, including Senate President Godswill Akpabio and Deputy Senate President Jibrin Barau.
In a statement following the event, Senate President Akpabio lauded the new wage law as a clear demonstration of President Tinubu’s commitment to Nigerian workers. “This is a historic day for Nigerian workers. The new minimum wage of N70,000 not only doubles the previous benchmark but also adds further financial support for our workforce,” Akpabio stated.
Akpabio expressed his enthusiasm, noting that the increase reflects a broader commitment to improving workers’ conditions across various sectors, including federal, state, and local governments, as well as the private sector. “This wage adjustment is not just a number; it represents a profound respect and acknowledgment of the hard work of our Nigerian workers,” he added.
During his address, Akpabio also took the opportunity to address concerns about planned protests. While acknowledging the right to peaceful demonstration, he cautioned against any actions that could escalate into violence or disrupt national stability. “It is your fundamental right to protest, but this right should not be misused to incite violence or cause destruction,” Akpabio warned.
He further emphasized that the current challenges faced by the country were not solely the result of the present administration’s policies. “The issues we face are the cumulative effects of prolonged instability and insecurity. We must resist any attempts to undermine progress through violent means,” he stated.
Akpabio highlighted the government’s ongoing efforts to stabilize the country, including the removal of restrictions on food imports and the provision of waivers to support the availability of essential goods. “Our focus is on building and developing, not on rebuilding after destruction,” he said, urging Nigerians to channel their energies into constructive actions.
Looking ahead, Akpabio revealed that work is already underway on the bill to finance the implementation of the new wage law, with an expected signing by Wednesday. He praised the swift passage of the minimum wage bill by the National Assembly and congratulated both President Tinubu and the legislative body for their expeditious actions.
The signing of the N70,000 minimum wage law comes amid heightened tensions and a proposed protest by unidentified groups. The Senate President’s remarks serve as both a celebration of a significant policy achievement and a call for peace and unity in the face of potential unrest.
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