The Gombe State Government, through its Minimum Wage Negotiation Committee led by Deputy Governor Dr. Manassah Jatau, has set October 2024 for the implementation of the ₦70,000 minimum wage for state workers.
During a press briefing on Thursday evening, Jatau confirmed that the committee had received the Federal Government’s consequential adjustment table, a key document in finalizing the wage structure for Gombe’s civil servants. He noted that a technical sub-committee, chaired by Finance Commissioner Gambo Magaji, had been given 72 hours to determine the exact amount payable to workers under the new wage plan.
“Having received the document, we convened a meeting to assess what we can realistically implement,” Jatau said. “The government and labour representatives are fully committed, and I can assure you that the governor is determined to pay the ₦70,000 minimum wage this month.”
He emphasized the role of the technical sub-committee in finalizing the wage details, stating, “They have 72 hours to return with their report, and possibly by Monday, I will confirm the final details.”
Jatau also stressed that while the administration is committed to enhancing workers’ welfare, there may not be provisions for salary arrears. “We don’t have the funds to cover arrears. The effective date for the minimum wage payment is October 2024, and since the Federal Government’s circular was not available earlier, we are starting from now.”
In support, Yusuf Aish-Bello, Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) in Gombe State, reiterated that the union would accept nothing less than the agreed ₦70,000 minimum wage. “We have examined the national tables, and when the technical meeting reconvenes, I am confident we will agree on what will be paid to civil servants,” Aish-Bello stated.
This move comes as part of ongoing efforts by state governments to align with the Federal Government’s wage structure adjustments.
