Governor Dapo Abiodun of Ogun State has approved a new minimum wage of ₦77,000 for workers, positioning Ogun as one of the few states in Nigeria to offer such a wage. The announcement came following a crucial meeting between the state government and labor union leaders, highlighting the administration’s commitment to improving the welfare of its workforce. The new wage structure is set to take effect immediately, signaling a swift response to the economic demands faced by workers in the state.
Governor Abiodun becomes the third Nigerian governor to introduce a minimum wage above ₦70,000, joining Ahmed Ododo of Kogi State and Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State. The new minimum wage reflects Ogun State’s proactive approach in addressing the economic challenges and inflationary pressures faced by its civil servants.
The meeting to finalize the wage increase was led by Mr. Tokunbo Talabi, the Secretary to the State Government, alongside representatives from various labor unions. The discussions focused on the implementation strategies, ensuring that the new wage policy aligns with the state’s budgetary framework while meeting workers’ needs. Governor Abiodun’s administration emphasized its commitment to prioritizing workers’ welfare as a central aspect of its governance strategy.
In his statement, Governor Abiodun expressed his administration’s dedication to fostering a supportive work environment, highlighting that the wage increment is part of broader efforts to uplift the state’s workforce and stimulate economic growth. He also acknowledged the contributions of labor union leaders in advocating for workers’ rights and collaborating with the state government to achieve this new milestone.
The announcement has been met with a mix of reactions from the public and labor representatives. Many workers have expressed relief and appreciation for the governor’s swift action, seeing it as a step in the right direction to mitigate the effects of rising costs of living. However, some have raised concerns about the sustainability of the wage increase and its potential impact on the state’s financial resources.
As the new minimum wage policy takes effect, the Ogun State government assures workers of its continued support and engagement to ensure the smooth implementation of the wage structure. Governor Abiodun’s decision is seen as a positive move that sets a benchmark for other states, emphasizing the importance of prioritizing workers’ welfare in Nigeria’s economic development.
