Workers in Rivers State have commended Governor Siminalayi Fubara for fulfilling his promise to implement the N85,000 minimum wage, with payments confirmed to have commenced as of November 27, 2024.
The Governor had earlier announced the new wage, assuring civil servants that implementation would begin with their November salaries. This move follows President Bola Tinubu’s approval of a N70,000 minimum wage in July 2024, aimed at addressing the nation’s economic challenges amidst pressure from the Nigeria Labour Congress.
Recognizing the significant role of civil servants, Governor Fubara pledged a higher minimum wage of N85,000 for Rivers State workers, emphasizing that the increase would be sustained through the state’s Internally Generated Revenue (IGR). Under his administration, the state’s IGR has risen from N11 billion under the previous administration to N27 billion, enabling the government to fund its developmental projects without resorting to borrowing.
Confirming the payment, Chukwuma Osunna, Chairman of the Nigeria Civil Service Union, Rivers State Chapter, expressed satisfaction with the Governor’s commitment.
“The Governor has fulfilled his promise. As of today, November 27, 2024, I can confirm that he has paid the N85,000 new minimum wage to workers, and the workers are happy,” Osunna stated.
He added, “We met under the joint council, sat with the Head of Service, reviewed the salary chart, and confirmed that the N85,000 was well-calculated and implemented in the November salary. Payment started today, and by tomorrow, other banks will process the salaries.”
Osunna further pledged the union’s support for the current administration, emphasizing the workers’ readiness to make sacrifices for the state’s progress.
In interviews, several civil servants expressed their joy over the wage increase, noting that it would motivate them to perform their duties more efficiently.
The implementation of the new wage showcases Governor Fubara’s commitment to improving the welfare of workers, setting Rivers State apart as a leader in addressing the economic needs of its civil service workforce.
