Nigerian gov begins payment of N104,000 minimum wage to civil servants

The Governor Hope Uzodimma-led government of Imo State has  begun the payment of the newly approved ₦104,000 minimum wage to civil servants, fulfilling his administration’s earlier pledge to review workers’ salaries upward.

Reports from the state indicate that civil servants have started receiving salary alerts reflecting the new wage structure, sparking excitement and appreciation for the governor’s swift implementation.

Governor Uzodimma had previously approved ₦104,000 as the minimum wage for newly recruited government workers, ₦513,000 for medical doctors, and ₦220,000 as the entry-level salary for lecturers in state-owned tertiary institutions.

With the rollout of this payment, Imo now leads the chart of Nigerian states offering the highest minimum wage, surpassing the national benchmark of ₦70,000. Lagos follows with ₦88,000, Rivers offers ₦85,000, while Akwa Ibom and Bayelsa each pay ₦80,000.

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According to a statement by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Public Enlightenment, Prince Eze Ugochukwu, issued on Sunday, the new wage policy is designed to enhance workers’ welfare and stimulate the state’s economy.

Ugochukwu said, “Governor Hope Uzodimma’s administration is spearheading this considerable policy change, which is poised to have a substantial impact on the state’s economic and social well-being.“The goal of this wage hike is to bolster the financial capacity of workers, empowering them to better address their requirements and invest in goods and services. This, in turn, would give a shot in the arm to local businesses.

“Following Imo, Lagos is offering the next highest minimum wage, clocking in at ₦88,000, with Rivers coming in at ₦85,000. Akwa Ibom and Bayelsa are close behind, each offering ₦80,000.“The ramifications of this adjustment will be far-reaching, with economic activity getting a boost. Increased spending will give the local economy a lift.”

The government emphasized that the wage increase underscores its dedication to improving civil servants’ welfare while driving economic growth across Imo State.