Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, has approved a new minimum wage of N70,000 for state workers, with implementation set to begin on December 1, 2024.
This milestone was formalised through a Memorandum of Understanding signed by the state government and leaders of organised labour.
In a statement, the governor’s Special Adviser on Media, Yinka Oyebode, described the wage increase as a reflection of Governor Oyebanji’s commitment to enhancing the welfare of civil servants.
Speaking at the signing ceremony, the Head of Service, Dr. Folakemi Olomojobi, commended the governor for his unwavering dedication to workers’ wellbeing.
“Governor Oyebanji approved the wage structure as presented by the negotiation committee, demonstrating his commitment to prioritizing workers’ welfare,” she said.
Olomojobi described the agreement as a historic moment for Ekiti State, emphasizing the thoroughness of the process.
“The committee spent eight weeks deliberating on the minimum wage, balancing the state’s financial realities with the demands of workers. Mr. Governor went above and beyond to meet these expectations,” she noted.
She expressed gratitude to labour leaders for their cooperation and urged civil servants to reciprocate the gesture through increased productivity.
“This is a call to action for workers to enhance service delivery and contribute to the growth of the state,” she added.
Labour leaders, including Kolapo Olatunde of the Nigeria Labour Congress, Sola Adigun of the Trade Union Congress, and Femi Ajoloko of the Joint Negotiating Council, applauded the governor for his responsiveness.
“This decision is timely, especially considering the current economic challenges,” Olatunde stated, calling for swift implementation to meet workers’ financial needs.
Commissioner for Information, Taiwo Olatunbosun, also hailed the agreement as evidence of Governor Oyebanji’s worker-friendly policies. “The adjustments reflect the administration’s passion for improving the living standards of civil servants in Ekiti State,” he said.
