Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, has approved a new minimum wage of N70,000 for workers in the state, with implementation set to begin on December 1, 2024.
This decision was formalized on Tuesday through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between the state government and organized labour leaders.
Announcing the development, the governor’s Special Adviser on Media, Yinka Oyebode, described the agreement as a reflection of Oyebanji’s dedication to prioritizing workers’ welfare. “The new minimum wage will commence on December 1, following the governor’s approval of the committee’s recommendations,” Oyebode said.
The Head of Service, Dr. Folakemi Olomojobi, signed the wage agreement on behalf of the state government, while labour leaders, including the chairmen of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Kolapo Olatunde; Trade Union Congress (TUC), Sola Adigun; and Joint Negotiating Council (JNC), Femi Ajoloko, signed on behalf of the workers.
Dr. Olomojobi highlighted Oyebanji’s unwavering commitment to Ekiti workers, describing him as a “worker-friendly governor.” She praised the labour leaders for their patience and collaborative approach during the negotiation process, which spanned eight weeks. “Mr. Governor bent forward and backward to accommodate the yearnings of workers, and today, we have agreed on the minimum wage to be paid in Ekiti State,” she said.
Olomojobi also commended the workers for their trust and patience during the deliberations, urging them to reciprocate by improving service delivery. “Ekiti workers have demonstrated resilience and unwavering trust in the state government. I call on them to reciprocate this gesture through enhanced dedication to their duties,” she added.
Labour Leaders Commend Governor Oyebanji
The labour leaders, in their remarks, lauded the governor’s efforts to provide the best for workers despite economic challenges.
NLC Chairman Kolapo Olatunde described the agreement as a historic step, urging the government to expedite implementation to help workers address their financial needs.
Similarly, TUC Chairman Sola Adigun and JNC Chairman Femi Ajoloko applauded the governor’s commitment to workers’ welfare, emphasizing the importance of timely execution of the agreement.
Commissioner for Information, Taiwo Olatunbosun, also weighed in, stating, “The agreement on the consequential adjustments on the minimum wage for all sectors of workers is a testament to the governor’s passion for the welfare of civil servants.”
