States Face Dilemma Over N70,000 Minimum Wage: Mixed Responses from Governors

Despite the federal government, Labour, and the Organised Private Sector (OPS) reaching an agreement to set the minimum wage at N70,000, many Nigerian states remain undecided on implementing the new wage. While some states have committed to the increase, others are taking a cautious approach, awaiting further consultations or the decisions of their peers.

States Yet to Commit

Delta State: Dr. Kingsley Emu, Secretary to the Delta State Government, described the decision on wage increment as complex, noting the need for careful consideration of the state’s financial capacity. Commissioner for Information, Dr. Ifeanyi Osouza, assured that Delta, known for being labour-friendly, would not lag behind once the Nigerian Governors’ Forum (NGF) takes a position.

Imo State: Commissioner for Labour, Ford Ozumba, stated that Imo would follow other states’ lead in adjusting to the new wage bill. Imo currently pays a minimum of N40,000.

Ebonyi State: Commissioner for Information, Jude Okpor, said the state would await the outcome of consultations, emphasizing the varying financial capabilities among states. Governor Francis Nwifuru is described as worker-friendly, having already approved additional payments to civil servants.

Rivers State: The government has yet to make its position known but denied reports of promising an N80,000 minimum wage. A statement from Chief Press Secretary Nelson Chukwudi promised clarity in due course.

Kano State: Commissioner for Information, Baba Dantiye, stated that Kano is studying the agreement before making a decision. Currently, the state pays a N30,000 minimum wage.

Abia State: Governor Alex Otti plans to meet with the state’s economic team to review the new wage. Abia has struggled with the previous N30,000 minimum wage, often paying less.

Adamawa State: Governor Ahmadu Fintiri has not yet addressed the new minimum wage. The state currently pays N32,000, with no salary arrears.

Kwara State: The government has not commented on the new wage. However, TUC state chair Olayinka Onikijipa is confident the state will comply once the bill becomes law.

States Committed to Payment

Nasarawa State: Governor Abdullahi Sule assured that the state would implement any amount agreed upon by the governors, emphasizing the priority on workers’ welfare.

Akwa Ibom State: The government has committed to paying the new N70,000 minimum wage, with Head of Civil Service Effiong Essien affirming the governor’s position.

Enugu State: A senior aide to Governor Peter Mbah expressed the governor’s willingness to make workers happy and assured that the state executive council would soon determine the implementation strategy.

Benue State: Chief Press Secretary Sir Kulas Tersoo affirmed that Governor Hyacinth Alia, who increased workers’ salaries upon assuming office, would have no problem paying the new wage.

Osun State: Governor Ademola Adeleke vowed not to default on the new minimum wage, highlighting his administration’s commitment to prioritizing workers’ welfare.

As the situation evolves, it remains to be seen how each state will address the new N70,000 minimum wage, balancing financial constraints with the need to improve workers’ living standards.