The Imo State Government has started implementing the new ₦104,000 minimum wage for civil servants, fulfilling its earlier commitment to increase workers’ salaries.
According to a report by The PUNCH, state employees have begun receiving salary alerts that reflect the revised wage structure, sparking excitement and appreciation towards Governor Hope Uzodimma for making good on his promise.
Governor Uzodimma had previously approved ₦104,000 as the new minimum wage for entry-level government workers, ₦513,000 for medical doctors, and ₦220,000 as the starting salary for lecturers in state-owned tertiary institutions.
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With this move, Imo State now tops the list of Nigerian states paying above the national minimum wage benchmark of ₦70,000.
Presently, Lagos State follows with a minimum wage of ₦88,000, Rivers State pays ₦85,000, while Akwa Ibom and Bayelsa both offer ₦80,000 to their workers.
In a statement issued on Sunday by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Public Enlightenment, Prince Eze Ugochukwu, the wage increase was described as a strategic policy aimed at boosting the state’s economy and enhancing workers’ living standards.
Ugochukwu stated, “Governor Hope Uzodimma’s administration is spearheading this considerable policy change, which is set to significantly impact the state’s economic and social development.
“The purpose of this wage increase is to strengthen workers’ financial capacity, enabling them to meet their needs and invest in goods and services. This will, in turn, stimulate growth for local businesses.
“After Imo, Lagos offers the next highest minimum wage at ₦88,000, followed by Rivers at ₦85,000. Akwa Ibom and Bayelsa each pay ₦80,000.
“The effects of this policy will be far-reaching, boosting economic activities as increased spending power lifts the local economy.”
The state government reiterated that the wage increment underscores its dedication to improving the welfare of civil servants and driving economic growth throughout Imo State.
