Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has approved a new minimum wage of N77,000 for the lowest-paid workers in the state, with immediate effect.
The announcement came following a meeting between the state government, led by the Secretary to the State Government, Mr. Tokunbo Talabi, and leaders of the Organized Labour, which includes the Labour Congress, Trade Union Congress, and the Joint Negotiating Council (JNC). The discussion focused on implementing the newly approved minimum wage.
Speaking after the meeting, Mr. Talabi stated, “This meeting was convened at the instance of the Governor, and I am pleased to inform you that an agreement has been reached with Labour. The Governor has directed that no worker in Ogun State will earn less than N77,000, starting from this October.”
Talabi emphasized that Governor Abiodun’s decision reflects his dedication to improving the welfare of the people, especially in light of current economic challenges. He also encouraged the organized private sector to adopt similar policies, as their employees are also affected by the nation’s economic situation. “The Governor has advised private sector employers to engage in dialogue with relevant stakeholders to determine a fair minimum wage for their workers. A monitoring team will be set up to ensure the policy is properly implemented and no one is short-changed,” Talabi added.
In response, the Chairman of the Ogun State Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Comrade Hameed Benco, expressed satisfaction with the Governor’s approval, describing it as the highest minimum wage in the country. “We are very pleased with the N77,000 minimum wage agreed upon with the Governor. Some states that have implemented the new minimum wage are paying N70,000 or less, but Ogun State has set a new benchmark,” Benco remarked. He also confirmed that other sectorial salary adjustments would follow and that the government has approved the union’s request to exempt the new basic salary from taxation.
Comrade Akeem Lasisi of the Trade Union Congress and Comrade Isa Olude of the Joint Negotiating Council echoed their support for the government’s decision.
They praised the administration for its worker-friendly policies and mentioned that the issue of consequential adjustments for pensioners would be addressed after consultations with stakeholders.
Ogun State Head of Service, Mr. Kehinde Onasanya, also commended Governor Abiodun, stating that the approval of the new minimum wage highlights the Governor’s commitment to the welfare of workers and citizens.
“This decision underscores the Governor’s responsiveness and dedication to the well-being of the people. It will boost workers’ morale and enhance productivity across the state,” Onasanya concluded.
