Gombe State Governor, Inuwa Yahaya, has expressed concerns over the state’s ability to meet the new minimum wage of N70,000, citing lean allocation from the federal government. The governor made this statement during a stakeholders’ meeting at the Gombe Government House to discuss the planned nationwide #Endbadgovernance protest.
Yahaya emphasized that many states are facing similar challenges in meeting the minimum wage, which was recently signed into law by President Bola Tinubu following an agreement with joint labour unions. The governor urged stakeholders to understand the state’s financial constraints and called for cooperation and dialogue to navigate the challenging times.
The governor also commended the federal government for its initiative to donate rice to states, but expressed concern over the delay in receiving these essential supplies in Gombe. “We are yet to receive the 20 trucks of rice allocated to Gombe State from the federal government,” Yahaya said.
Despite these challenges, Yahaya emphasized the state’s commitment to providing relief to its citizens. He cited previous palliative distributions and ongoing investments in human capital development, education, health, and agriculture as examples of the state’s efforts.
The governor also reiterated the importance of peaceful and orderly conduct during the protest, acknowledging the role of civil society organizations, labour unions, and traders in maintaining social stability and economic resilience. He called on stakeholders to continue working together to address the challenges facing the state.
Meanwhile, Yusuf Ibrahim, Chairman of the Gombe Network of Civil Society Organizations, presented a list of demands on behalf of NGOs, urging the governor to release a list of stocked palliatives. The demands included improved governance, transparency, and accountability from government officials.
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