States Ready to Implement ₦70,000 Minimum Wage

President Bola Tinubu announced on Thursday the approval of a new minimum wage of ₦70,000 and pledged to review the national minimum wage law every three years to ensure it remains fair and effective.

However, there are indications that some states may be reluctant to implement the agreed-upon wage hike.

While some states are engaging in further deliberations, others are cautiously waiting to observe the moves of their counterparts before making their own decisions.

1. Osun State

Governor Ademola Adeleke has assured that his administration will fully comply with the ₦70,000 minimum wage. He emphasized his government’s dedication to the welfare of civil servants in the state.

2. Benue State

Governor Hyacinth Alia has also pledged to implement the new minimum wage. According to his Chief Press Secretary, Sir Kulas Tersoo, the governor had already increased workers’ salaries upon taking office, aligning with his campaign promises.

3. Akwa Ibom State

Governor Umo Eno confirmed that Akwa Ibom State is prepared to pay the new minimum wage. He stated that the state government would adhere to the agreement reached between organized labor and the federal government.

4. Enugu State

Governor Peter Mbah’s administration has shown a strong commitment to the new minimum wage. A senior aide disclosed that the state executive council would convene to discuss adjustments needed to ensure the wage hike is implemented smoothly.

5. Oyo State

Governor Seyi Makinde noted that Oyo State has already been paying ₦55,000 to all civil servants since October 2023. He expressed confidence that the state would have no issues transitioning to the new ₦70,000 minimum wage.

6. Borno State

Governor Babagana Umara Zulum has communicated his commitment to the new wage. The Borno Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) Chairman, Inuwa Yusuf, confirmed the governor’s readiness to implement the wage increase.

Labor Unions’ Response

The Joint Labour Unions have issued a stern warning to states that might hesitate to implement the new minimum wage. Christopher Arapasopo, President of the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) in Osun State, stressed that any state failing to comply would face industrial action.

He stated, “The governors were present when the ₦70,000 minimum wage was agreed upon. We, as labor, initially suggested ₦250,000, which was negotiated down to ₦70,000. We have made significant sacrifices, and we will not tolerate any governor failing to pay the new minimum wage. It is non-negotiable.”

GWG.ng reports that as the deadline for implementation approaches, these states have demonstrated their commitment to the new minimum wage. The labor unions’ firm stance further shows the importance of compliance, ensuring that workers across the nation receive fair compensation for their efforts. The spotlight now shifts to other states as they deliberate on their next steps.
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