In a significant move aimed at improving the welfare of civil servants, Governor Godwin Obaseki of Edo State has announced a substantial increase in the minimum wage, raising it to N70,000. The governor disclosed this during the inauguration ceremony of the Labour House, where he also unveiled plans to name the building after Adams Oshiomhole, the Senator representing Edo North and former governor of the state.
Effective from May 1, 2024, the new minimum wage regime is set to positively impact the lives of workers in Edo State. This announcement aligns with the ongoing advocacy by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) for improved wages nationwide, reflecting the economic challenges faced by workers.
The push for a higher minimum wage comes in response to the economic reforms initiated by President Bola Tinubu’s administration, particularly the removal of petrol subsidy and the unification of forex windows in 2023. These reforms have resulted in food inflation and increased prices of goods and services, necessitating a review of wage structures to mitigate the impact on workers.
It is worth noting that the national minimum wage has remained stagnant at N30,000 since April 18, 2019, a figure widely criticized as insufficient given the prevailing economic hardships. Obaseki’s decision to more than double the minimum wage in Edo State reflects a commitment to addressing the welfare needs of workers and ensuring equitable economic prosperity for all citizens.
Further details regarding the implementation of the new minimum wage announced by Governor Obaseki are expected to emerge in due course, as the state government works to enact measures aimed at improving the standard of living for its workforce.