In a recent development that was covered by The Cable, Senator Akume, who was speaking on behalf of President Tinubu at the ceremony, expressed hope that there would be major changes soon since more Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses would be coming into the nation.
According to Senator Akume, “Ours is a complex federation, where the three tiers of government all have access to federation accounts, and so if we work together, we can do more for our people.” Senator Akume highlighted the potential for collaboration across the three tiers of government and emphasized the need for joint efforts to enhance services for citizens.
He further underlined the impending impact of the increased availability of CNG buses and the forthcoming implementation of a new minimum wage. Senator Akume remarked, “Things will begin to change as more compressed natural gas (CNG) buses make their way to the country and as we prepare for a new minimum wage.”
Recalling agreements reached in 2023 between the Tinubu administration and organized labor, leading to the suspension of a nationwide strike, commitments were made, including the provision of CNG vehicles, a cash transfer program, and an increment in the minimum wage.
To fulfill these commitments, the federal government announced plans in August 2023 to invest N100 billion to acquire 3,000 CNG-powered 20-seater buses by March 2024. Additionally, in December, a further N130 billion was budgeted for CNG conversion and electric vehicles.
Regarding minimum wage demands, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) advocated for a new national minimum wage of N794,000 for workers in the South-West zone, while proposing a minimum wage of N540,000 for its workers in the South East.
As the government gears up for these changes, the impact of the increased use of CNG buses and the adjustments in minimum wage are expected to shape the socio-economic landscape, reflecting the administration’s commitment to addressing key issues affecting the Nigerian workforce.
