Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara has approved a new minimum wage of N85,000 for civil servants employed by the state government.
This decision was made during a closed-door meeting at Government House in Port Harcourt, which involved representatives from organized labor, specifically the Joint Public Service Negotiating Council.
The announcement was shared through a statement from the Governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Nelson Chukwudi. Following the meeting, Dr. George Nwaeke, the Head of Rivers State Civil Service, conveyed the Governor’s decision, stating that the implementation of this new wage would begin in November 2024.
Dr. Nwaeke remarked, “Governor Fubara has set a new minimum wage of N85,000, surpassing the national minimum wage standard. I am pleased to say that Rivers State civil servants have never had such favorable conditions since the establishment of this state.”
He also noted that the labor union leaders and other stakeholders expressed their satisfaction with this development.
When asked about the potential for back pay, Dr. Nwaeke mentioned that a technical committee has been formed to create a feasible payment plan addressing arrears. He explained, “The committee will evaluate the specifics of the payment and will provide updates to the press.”
In a related context, Emecheta Chuku, the Chairman of the Joint Public Service Negotiating Council, emphasized that this meeting with Governor Fubara was their first opportunity to discuss the new minimum wage approved by the Federal Government. He described the Governor’s approval of the N85,000 wage as a significant gesture of care for workers.
Chuku stated, “The Governor’s declaration of N85,000 as the minimum wage, despite the various challenges he faces, brings us great joy. We have confidence in his commitment to improving workers’ lives.”
Alex Agwanwor, Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress in Rivers State, noted that this new wage positions Rivers State ahead of Lagos State in terms of the highest minimum wage for civil servants in Nigeria. He pointed out, “With both states at N85,000, it’s important to recognize that Rivers State’s internal revenue generation differs from Lagos State’s. This wage demonstrates our Governor’s dedication to his workforce.”
Agwanwor concluded by affirming labor’s support for Governor Fubara, expressing gratitude for his consistent commitment to civil servants. He added, “We are proud to share this news with workers at the State Secretariat, highlighting the Governor’s generosity towards civil servants.”
