The 36 state governors of Nigeria have addressed key issues, including the new minimum wage and state policing, during a meeting of the Nigeria Governors Forum (NGF). Led by the chairman of the forum and Kwara State Governor, Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq, the governors reviewed the progress of determining a new minimum wage. They emphasized the need for the new figure to consider current realities, individual state peculiarities, and its impact on both government and private sector employers, urging proposals to be data-driven and evidence-based.
Additionally, the governors expressed support for the creation of state police, believing it can address existing flaws in the nation’s security framework. They called for state policing to be a focal point in the ongoing constitutional amendment process. The governors also commiserated with Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, over a communal clash that led to the death of 16 military personnel, condemning the act and observing a minute of silence for the deceased.
Furthermore, the governors discussed concerns raised by the United States embassy regarding illegal intercountry adoption of Nigerian children by US citizens, pledging to engage relevant government agencies to address the situation. They also reviewed the progress made by states in implementing business enabling reforms and received updates on health sector initiatives. The governors reaffirmed their commitment to achieving the objectives of these initiatives.