Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has approved a new minimum wage of N77,000 for the state's lowest-paid workers, with immediate effect. This decision followed a meeting between the governor, represented by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Mr. Tokunbo Talabi, and the leadership of the Organized Labour in Ogun State, which includes the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Trade Union Congress (TUC), and the Joint Negotiating Council (JNC). The meeting centered around the implementation of the new wage.
Speaking through the SSG, Governor Abiodun affirmed that no worker in Ogun State should earn less than N77,000 starting from October. He emphasized that his administration is committed to improving the welfare of the people and has taken proactive steps to ease their economic challenges.
The governor also mentioned his engagement with the private sector, urging them to adopt similar wage adjustments for their workers, recognizing that private sector employees are also affected by the current economic realities. He plans to establish a monitoring team to ensure private employers implement fair wages, ensuring no worker is underpaid.
Ogun State NLC Chairman, Comrade Hameed Benco, expressed satisfaction with the governor’s decision, noting that N77,000 is currently the highest minimum wage in the country. Benco compared it to other states, where new minimum wages range between N70,000 and N70,250. He also highlighted the government's agreement that the new basic salary will not be taxed.
Comrade Akeem Lasisi of the TUC and Comrade Isa Olude of the JNC praised the government's worker-friendly approach, adding that further announcements on adjustments for pensioners and other issues will follow after consultations.
The Ogun State Head of Service, Mr. Kehinde Onasanya, commended the governor's responsiveness and concern for workers' welfare, expressing confidence that this move will boost employee morale and enhance their commitment to implementing government policies.
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