Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, has approved a new minimum wage of N77,000 for the lowest-paid workers in the state, with immediate effect from October 2024.
The announcement followed a meeting between the state government, led by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Tokunbo Talabi, and the leadership of organized labour in Ogun State, including the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Trade Union Congress (TUC) and the Joint Negotiating Council (JNC), to discuss the wage implementation.
Speaking on the governor’s directive, Talabi stated that Governor Abiodun has mandated that no worker in the state should earn below N77,000.
He emphasized the administration’s commitment to improving the welfare of workers and addressing the economic challenges faced by residents.
“The Abiodun-led government is proactive in alleviating the hardships of its people, and this decision demonstrates our focus on the well-being of workers,” Talabi said.
He further disclosed that the governor has urged the organized private sector to adopt the same standard and assured that a monitoring team would be established to ensure compliance and prevent any workers from being shortchanged.
Labour Leaders Commend Government
State NLC Chairman, Comrade Hameed Benco lauded Governor Abiodun for the progressive decision, noting that while some states are paying N70,000 or N70,250, Ogun State now offers the highest minimum wage.
Similarly, Comrade Akeem Lasisi of the TUC and Comrade Isa Olude of the JNC praised the government for prioritizing workers’ welfare.
They noted that discussions on consequential adjustments for pensioners and other related issues would follow consultations with relevant stakeholders.
Government’s Responsiveness to Workers’ Welfare
Reacting to the development, Ogun State Head of Service, Kehinde Onasanya, described the wage approval as a reflection of the administration’s responsiveness and sensitivity to the needs of workers and the general populace.
“The governor’s gesture will significantly boost the morale of workers, motivating them to continue implementing government policies with greater dedication,” Onasanya added.
The new minimum wage policy is expected to not only enhance the quality of life for workers but also strengthen the relationship between the state government and its workforce.
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