President Bola Tinubu’s Chief of Staff, Femi Gbajabiamila, has revealed that his superior intends to make a rare appearance at the 142nd session of the National Economic Council (NEC) at the Aso Rock Villa in Abuja on Thursday. He mentioned that Tinubu will be engaging with state governors on the topic of the new national minimum wage during the meeting.
NEC, as outlined in section 153(1) and Paragraphs 18 &19 of part I of the Third Schedule of the 1999 Constitution (as amended), consists of the 36 state governors, the Governor of the Central Bank, and other appointed government officials.
Led by the Vice President, the council convenes monthly to fulfill its duty of advising the President on the economic matters of the Federation, particularly on measures essential for coordinating the economic planning endeavors or economic programs of the various Governments of the Federation.
Nevertheless, Gbajabiamila has revealed that the President is planning to participate in the meeting due to the significance of the minimum wage legislation. This revelation was made during a visit to Kano where he led a distinguished delegation to offer condolences to Vice President Kashim Shettima on the passing of his mother-in-law.
The Chief of Staff characterized this development as atypical, noting that the President rarely attends NEC meetings. “He is genuinely saddened and he expressed a desire to be present with you. As you are aware, our President is highly versatile, capable of being in multiple locations simultaneously, but regrettably, this bill necessitates his presence at the seat of power. Indeed, he will be joining you tomorrow, underscoring the importance of his presence in Abuja at this time. His attendance at the NEC meeting, which he seldom participates in, may even mark his inaugural appearance,” Gbajabiamila remarked.
This gathering follows the Federal Executive Council’s decision on Tuesday to defer the report of the Tripartite Committee on the New National Minimum Wage, citing the necessity for President Tinubu to engage in further consultations with other stakeholders on the issue.
President Tinubu’s unexpected decision to attend the NEC meeting has sparked speculation and interest among political circles. Many are eager to witness his stance and approach toward the minimum wage legislation, considering his historical positions on economic matters. The significance of his presence at the meeting cannot be understated, as it may signal a shift in his administration’s economic policies. All eyes will be on Aso Rock Villa on Thursday as stakeholders eagerly await the outcome of this crucial gathering.
