Ogun State Governor, Dapo Abiodun, has approved a new minimum wage of ₦77,000 for the state’s lowest-paid workers, with immediate effect. The announcement was made following a meeting between the state government, represented by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Mr. Tokunbo Talabi, and leaders from the Organised Labour in Ogun State, which includes the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Trade Union Congress (TUC), and the Joint Negotiating Council (JNC). The discussion centered around the implementation of the new minimum wage.
Speaking at the meeting, Talabi said, “This meeting is at the instance of Governor Abiodun, who has directed that no worker in the state should earn less than ₦77,000, effective from October. The governor is deeply committed to easing the financial burdens on the people of Ogun State.”
Talabi further stated that the governor has called on the organized private sector to adopt a similar policy, as their workers are also impacted by the current economic challenges. He emphasized that the government will establish a monitoring team to ensure the private sector complies and that no worker is disadvantaged in the process.
In his remarks, Ogun State NLC Chairman, Hameed Benco, expressed satisfaction with the governor’s decision, highlighting that ₦77,000 is the highest minimum wage currently offered by any state in Nigeria. He noted that other states have adopted varying figures, with some paying ₦70,000 or ₦70,250. He also confirmed that other sectorial salaries within the state would be adjusted accordingly and that the new basic salary will not be subject to taxation.
Comrades Akeem Lasisi of the TUC and Isa Olude of the JNC praised the government for its worker-friendly stance. They acknowledged that consequential adjustments for pensioners and other outstanding matters would be addressed after further consultations with relevant stakeholders.
Ogun State Head of Service, Mr. Kehinde Onasanya, lauded the governor’s approval of the minimum wage, describing it as a testament to the administration’s responsiveness to the needs of its workers and residents. He expressed optimism that this move would inspire greater commitment from workers in executing the government’s policies and programs.
