Edo State Governor Announces N70,000 Minimum Wage for Civil Servants

Edo State Governor Godwin Obaseki has announced a new minimum wage of N70,000 for civil servants in the state, effective May 1, 2024. The governor made the announcement on Monday while inaugurating the newly built ultra-modern Labour House secretariat complex for labour unions in Benin City.

The Labour House, located along Temboga Road in Ikpoba-Hill, was named after Senator Adams Oshiomhole, the former governor of Edo State and a prominent labor unionist. Governor Obaseki described the building as "the most magnificent Labour House in Nigeria."

The previous minimum wage in Edo State was N40,000. The increase to N70,000 is part of Governor Obaseki's efforts to improve the welfare of civil servants in the state. "The minimum wage increase is aimed at improving the welfare of civil servants in the state," Obaseki stated during the inauguration ceremony.

Why this matters: The announcement comes as the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) is in negotiations with the Federal Government to increase the national minimum wage to match rising inflation, which hit 33.2% in March 2024. The current national minimum wage of N30,000 is set to expire at the end of March 2024, and the NLC and Trade Union Congress (TUC) have demanded a new minimum wage of N615,000. The Federal Government has set up a 37-member panel to recommend a new national minimum wage, with a directive to "speedily" arrive at a resolution.

Governor Obaseki's move to increase the minimum wage in Edo State is seen as a proactive step to address the economic hardship faced by civil servants in the face of high inflation and rising prices. The inauguration of the Labour House named after Senator Adams Oshiomhole also highlights the importance of labor unions in advocating for workers' rights and welfare.

Key Takeaways

• Edo State announces new minimum wage of ₦70,000 effective May 1, 2024.
• New Labour House secretariat complex inaugurated, named after ex-governor Oshiomhole.
• Previous minimum wage in Edo was ₦40,000, increase aims to improve civil servants' welfare.
• Announcement comes as NLC negotiates with FG to increase national minimum wage.
• Edo's move seen as proactive step to address economic hardship faced by civil servants.