Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has officially approved a new minimum wage of N77,000 for the state’s lowest-paid workers, effective from October. This decision was made following a meeting with leaders from the Organised Labour, including the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Trade Union Congress (TUC), and the Joint Negotiating Council (JNC).

Representing the Governor, the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Mr. Tokunbo Talabi, stated that no worker in Ogun State should earn less than N77,000 starting this month. He reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to enhancing the welfare of citizens and addressing economic challenges.

Governor Abiodun also urged the organized private sector to adopt this minimum wage policy, ensuring fair compensation for employees amid the country’s economic conditions. He announced the formation of a monitoring team to oversee the implementation of this wage adjustment in the private sector to protect employees’ interests.

Comrade Hameed Benco, chairman of the State NLC, expressed satisfaction with the new minimum wage, noting that it is the highest in Nigeria, surpassing wages in other states, which range from N70,000 to N70,250. He also mentioned that the new basic salary will be exempt from taxation.

Comrades Akeem Lasisi of the TUC and Isa Olude of the JNC praised the state government for its worker-friendly policies and indicated that future discussions would address consequential adjustments for pensioners and related matters.

Mr. Kehinde Onasanya, the State’s Head of Service, described the approval of the new minimum wage as a reflection of Governor Abiodun’s sensitivity to the needs of workers and the community. He expressed hope that these measures would enhance worker morale and commitment to government initiatives.