Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma has approved the implementation of a N70,000 minimum wage for workers in the state.
The development comes after a two-day marathon meeting between the state government and representatives from the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Trade Union Congress (TUC), and Joint Union Negotiating Council.
According to Governor Uzodimma, the new minimum wage is a demonstration of his administration’s commitment to improving the welfare of workers in the state. He noted that the current economic climate and rising living costs necessitate the need for better incentives for the working community.
In addition to the minimum wage approval, Governor Uzodimma also announced that payment of outstanding gratuities to retirees from local and state governments would commence on Tuesday, November 26. The governor pledged to review pension allowances upward after completing the ongoing pension audit.
Governor Uzodimma assured that those on consolidated salaries who are already on N70,000 minimum wage would receive an additional 10 percent on top of their salaries.
Meanwhile, the implementation committee, comprising representatives from the NLC, TUC, and state government, has agreed on the minimum wage and consequential adjustments.
The NLC and TUC Chairmen in Imo State expressed their excitement and gratitude to Governor Uzodimma for his benevolence to Imo workers. They assured that workers will reciprocate the gesture by being more dedicated to duty and more productive.