Delta State Governor, Sheriff Oborevwori, has announced that the state government is unable to implement the new minimum wage at this time due to the absence of a standardised template from the Federal Government.
Governor Oborevwori made this disclosure during a thanksgiving service held in Asaba on Tuesday to honour Mrs Lyna Ocholor, his Principal Secretary, who recently retired from civil service. Mrs Ocholor also served as the Clerk of the Delta State House of Assembly, contributing significantly to the legislative process during her tenure.
Speaking at the event, Governor Oborevwori explained that the state government is eager to adopt the new minimum wage but is waiting for clear guidelines from the Federal Government to ensure proper and accurate implementation.
He emphasised the importance of avoiding errors in the computation of consequential adjustments related to the new wage structure.
“We are waiting for the chart of the new minimum wage because we don’t want to make any mistakes,” he stated, underscoring the need for caution and precision in executing wage adjustments.
Governor Oborevwori took the opportunity to express his gratitude to the staff of the Delta State House of Assembly for their unwavering support during his tenure as Speaker of the 6th and 7th Assemblies.
Reflecting on his time in office, he noted the harmonious working relationship he enjoyed with the Assembly staff, highlighting that there were no strike actions during his six-year leadership as Speaker.
He remarked, “I am very happy to be in your midst today. It is also an opportunity to appreciate the staff of this Assembly.
I remember on the 11th of May, 2017, when I took over as Mr Speaker, it was tough, but the good thing is that none of the staff went on strike for the six years I was Speaker.”
Governor Oborevwori also took a moment to celebrate Mrs Ocholor’s achievements, commending her for her dedication and exemplary service to the state.
He urged public servants to strive for excellence and integrity in their duties, emphasising the lasting impact of one’s work and the importance of being remembered for positive contributions. “What I want to say is that anywhere you are working, be good. Anything you are doing, be good.
As a civil or public servant, you must do what you will be remembered for,” he advised, encouraging civil servants to maintain high standards of professionalism and commitment.
Mrs Lyna Ocholor, in her remarks, expressed deep appreciation to Governor Oborevwori and the Assembly staff for their steadfast support throughout her career as Clerk of the House.
She acknowledged that her success in her role was largely due to the collective efforts and cooperation of her colleagues.
“I could not have succeeded without your support and cooperation,” she stated, highlighting the importance of teamwork and mutual respect in achieving organisational goals.
The delay in the implementation of the new minimum wage in Delta State reflects broader challenges faced by state governments across Nigeria, as many are similarly awaiting detailed directives from the Federal Government.
The new minimum wage, which was promised to alleviate the financial strain on workers and improve their standard of living, has been a significant point of discussion among labour unions and government officials alike.
Governor Oborevwori’s comments highlight the complexities involved in rolling out such policy changes at the state level, particularly when dependent on federal guidelines.
As the Delta State government awaits the Federal Government’s template, Governor Oborevwori reassured workers that the state remains committed to implementing the new wage structure once all necessary information is received.
His administration’s stance underscores the importance of careful planning and adherence to established procedures to ensure that the new minimum wage is implemented smoothly and effectively, without compromising the financial stability of the state.
In summary, Governor Sheriff Oborevwori’s recent statements provide insight into the ongoing efforts and challenges related to the implementation of the new minimum wage in Delta State.
His emphasis on precision, gratitude towards Assembly staff, and encouragement of exemplary public service resonate as key messages to both the civil service community and the wider public, as the state navigates this important transition.
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