Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has directed the immediate implementation of the new N70,000 minimum wage, effective October 2024. This aligns with the recent wage policy announced by the Federal Government of Nigeria.
The Honourable Commissioner for Finance, Dr. Hauwa Nuru, disclosed this in a statement, highlighting that the new wage structure will benefit all public sector employees in the state, including those in the 16 local government areas. She noted that the wage adjustment follows extensive consultations between the state government, labour unions — Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Trade Union Congress (TUC), and the Joint Negotiating Council (JNC) — and representatives from the private sector.
Pro-Worker Governance
Dr. Nuru, co-chair of the state’s minimum wage committee, commended Governor AbdulRazaq for his decisive leadership and unwavering commitment to workers’ welfare. She noted that the Governor gave the committee full autonomy to ensure that a fair and sustainable agreement was reached.
“This swift approval and implementation underscore Governor AbdulRazaq’s pro-worker stance and his proactive approach to ensuring that the livelihoods of public servants are safeguarded,” the Commissioner stated.
The decision also includes consequential adjustments to salary structures, further demonstrating the state’s commitment to prioritizing workers’ welfare while ensuring economic sustainability.
Collaborative Efforts Lead to Success
Dr. Nuru praised the harmonious relationship between the government and labour unions, attributing the successful negotiation to a shared commitment to improving the lives of workers. She stressed that this new wage will help cushion the effects of the current economic challenges faced by many citizens, ensuring a better quality of life for public servants.
“The approval of this new minimum wage is a major step towards enhancing the well-being of workers in Kwara State. It’s a move that aligns with the Governor’s broader vision of inclusive growth, economic stability, and sustainable development for all Kwarans,” Dr. Nuru added.
The Commissioner thanked Governor AbdulRazaq for his foresight and labour unions for their cooperation in achieving this milestone, emphasizing that the welfare of workers remains a key priority for the administration.
A Milestone in Worker Welfare
The state government’s swift action has been widely welcomed as a significant boost for public sector workers, reinforcing Governor AbdulRazaq’s reputation as a leader committed to the people. Labour leaders have also lauded the Governor for his responsiveness to workers’ needs, noting that this decision will have a positive impact on the state’s economy by increasing purchasing power and boosting morale across the public sector.
This new wage structure is expected to set a benchmark for other states and solidify Kwara’s position as a leader in worker welfare in Nigeria.
