By Adejoke Adeleye
Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, has approved a new minimum wage of N77,000 for the state’s lowest-paid workers, with immediate effect.
The announcement came after a crucial meeting between the State Government, led by Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Mr. Tokunbo Talabi, and the leadership of the organised labour unions in Ogun, which include the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Trade Union Congress (TUC), and the Joint Negotiating Council (JNC). The meeting focused on the implementation of the new wage structure.
Speaking on behalf of the Governor, Talabi explained that Governor Abiodun had instructed that no worker in the state should earn less than N77,000 from October onwards.
He added that this move was part of the Governor’s proactive efforts to alleviate the economic challenges facing the state’s workforce.
“The Governor is keen on improving the living standards of Ogun citizens and has urged the private sector to follow suit by ensuring fair wages for their employees, as they are equally impacted by the country’s economic situation,” Talabi noted.
To ensure compliance, the Governor plans to establish a monitoring team to oversee the implementation of the new minimum wage in the private sector, ensuring workers are not underpaid.
The NLC Chairman in Ogun, Comrade Hameed Benco, expressed satisfaction with the state government’s decision, noting that Ogun now offers the highest minimum wage in Nigeria.
Benco highlighted that while some states pay N70,000 or slightly more, Ogun’s N77,000 stands out as a major achievement for workers.
He also confirmed that the government had accepted the labour unions’ demand that the new minimum wage should not be taxed, ensuring workers retain their full earnings.
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In their remarks, Comrades Akeem Lasisi (TUC) and Isa Olude (JNC) praised the government for its commitment to workers’ welfare, adding that discussions regarding pensioners and other related adjustments would be addressed soon.
Ogun State Head of Service, Mr. Kehinde Onasanya, lauded the Governor’s decision, calling it a testament to his sensitivity towards the plight of the workers.
He expressed optimism that the new wage structure would motivate employees to work diligently towards the successful implementation of government policies.
