Benue State Governor Hyacinth Alia has approved a new minimum wage of ₦75,000 for workers, surpassing the federal minimum of₦70,000.

The announcement was made on Monday in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary, Kula Tersoo, after the governor met with representatives of organized labor at the State Secretariat. The new wage will take effect in November 2024, alongside the payment of three months’ salary arrears.

Governor Alia explained the rationale behind the decision, stating, “We are implementing a new national minimum wage of seventy-five thousand naira (₦75,000). This amount was carefully considered in light of the concerns raised by organized labor during negotiations, including a wage award of ₦35,000, transportation allowances, tax relief, and work-off days.”

He emphasized that the increase reflects his administration’s dedication to addressing workers’ concerns and improving their welfare, especially during challenging economic times.

The governor also noted that the payment of arrears and the decision to set the minimum wage above the federal benchmark are part of his administration’s broader strategy to ease the financial burden on employees and enhance their livelihoods.