Amid calls for protest, the Presidency has said progress comes from dialogue and not through chaos and violent dissent.
Senior Special Assistant on Digital and New Media to President Bola Tinubu, O’tega Ogra, said the federal government has put out many developmental programmes aimed at ameliorating economic hardship in the country.
On his X handle on Wednesday, Ogra argued that these interventions by the federal government were enough to stop the protest planned and enable discussion.
“Minimum Wage Bill…Passed by the National Assembly less than a week after Mr President’s intervention meeting with organized Labour.
“When you add this development to the Student Loan Act (which was amended and passed just as quickly as the Minimum wage bill), the setting up of credicorp, a reduction in the number of taxes people pay, removal of levies/duties on essential food commodities, the holistic Presidential CNG Initiative (which seeks to reduce our dependence on ‘Premium’ Motor Spirit in favour of the cheaper, safer CNG which we have in abundance in Nigeria), then you will see a comprehensive, structured, and sustainable approach to providing a better life for Nigerians whilst other temporary palliative measures are being put in place.
“So that you know, Mr. President Bola Tinubu is eager to assent to the bill so workers can start enjoying this new wage structure as soon as possible,” he said.
The Digital and New Media aide to President Tinubu said the policies of the government on minimum wage, reduction in taxes and levies and CNG vehicles would increase workers’ disposable income and support their well-being.
Ogra added, “These measures will contribute to increased disposable income for workers by reducing the financial burden of tertiary education school fees as well as providing free CNG kits for commercial vehicles. Moreover, the reduction in the number of taxes for individuals/businesses and improved access to credit via Credicorp will further support workers’ well-being.
“Koko of The Matter: True progress arises from dialogue at the table, not from the chaos of violent dissent.”