Rita Odafe
Ogun State Raises Minimum Wage
Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State has announced an increase in the minimum wage to N77,000.
This new wage applies to the lowest earners in the state and is effective immediately.
The announcement followed a meeting between state officials, led by Secretary to the State Government, Tokunbo Talabi, and labor leaders from the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Trade Union Congress (TUC), and the Joint Negotiating Council (JNC), aimed at discussing the new wage implementation.
During the meeting, Talabi explained that Governor Abiodun mandated that no state worker should earn below N77,000 starting in October.
The secretary noted the governor’s commitment to improving the lives of the state’s residents and addressing their challenges.
He also urged the private sector to align with this wage policy, emphasizing its importance in improving the overall well-being of workers amidst current economic conditions.
Furthermore, the governor will establish a team to monitor the implementation of this wage in the private sector to ensure fair treatment for all workers.
NLC Chairman in Ogun State, Hameed Benco, expressed satisfaction with the governor’s decision, highlighting that it is the highest minimum wage in the country, surpassing other states that pay less.
Benco also mentioned that the new wage structure will positively influence salaries across different sectors, along with a tax exemption on the newly approved salary.
Other labor leaders, including Akeem Lasisi from the TUC and Isa Olude from the JNC, praised the government for its supportive stance toward workers.
They indicated that further discussions regarding adjustments for pensioners and other issues will follow.
Kehinde Onasanya, the Ogun State Head of Service, emphasized that the governor’s approval reflects a genuine concern for workers’ welfare, boosting their morale and commitment to governmental initiatives.
