N104,000 monthly pay for Imo workers
The state’s doctors’ pay was also raised from N215,000 to N503,000, while that of tertiary institution teachers went up from N119,000 to N222,000 It’s a bumper season in Imo as Gov. Hope Uzodimma approves a new minimum wage of N104,000 for civil servants in the state. Uzodimma made this known during a meeting with various labour union leaders on Tuesday night at the Government House in Owerri. The current value represents a 84.2 percent increase from N76,000 that was the minimum wage previously approved by the governor. Similarly, the minimum wage of doctors was raised from N215,000 to N503,000, while that of tertiary institution teachers went up from N119,000 to N222,000, among others. He said Imo citizens had faced numerous challenges since his government took office, including insecurity, the COVID-19 pandemic, economic hardship from reform policies, and disputes over minimum wage and subsidy removal. “There is no way any government will do well if it doesn’t have a friendly and cordial relationship with the organised labour. “When workers are paid well, productivity rises, families are happier, and the local economy grows. “This is our way of investing in Imo people. Government believes in stimulating political and economic activities, carrying bureaucrats along, and making sure that workers’ welfare was highly respected,” he said. Uzodimma said that the state Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) had grown from N400 million to over N3 billion monthly. According to him, in 2020, we were receiving allocations between N5 billion to N7 billion, but has increased to N14 billion. “In 2020, the state recorded a debt profile of over N280 billion but has reduced to less than N100 billion,” he added. The governor recalled that when he assumed office in 2020, the major infrastructure in all sectors were totally collapsed. He said a lot had been expended to rebuild the collapsed infrastructure especially roads and combating the insecurity challenges. He stressed that the removal of fuel subsidy had equally raised the cost of living in Nigeria as much as it had its own advantages. “It is a thing of joy that we have started seeing the dividends of that bold decision of President Bola Tinubu to remove fuel subsidy. “What government is confronted with now is how to ensure that the dividends of that policy trickles down to the common man on the street. “Cognisant of the fact that our effort has started yielding dividends and that our IGR had improved and that reform policies of the President has also increased our allocations to sub-national governments, every responsible government must be transparent about it,” he said. The governor further said that the state government will on Aug. 27, begin payment of the last batch of gratituity of N16 billion owed pensioners in the state. He said his administration had carried out major reforms in the health sector, including initiating health insurance scheme and equipping health facilities to ensure world class treatment for Imo citizens. He said his government had keyed into the Federal Government project of establishing 1,000 businesses in every active INEC ward. He charged labour unions to unite to foster good working relations between labour and government, Uzodimma, who solicited for value addition from workers, also cautioned them against unethical practices and redundancy at work. Responding, the state Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Mr Uchechigemezu Nwigwe described the increase in minimum wage in the state as “victory for the entire work force in the state.” Nwigwe said Uzodimma did not only rescue the workers from the economic challenges, but had made the state one of the highest in payment of minimum wage. “Today, no worker in Imo will say you (Uzodimma) have not been fair to us,” he noted. Nwigwe prayed God to continue to protect the governor, assuring him that workers will reciprocate the gesture with more diligent, efficient and effective service. Also speaking, the state Chairman of Trade Union Congress, Mr Uchenna Ibe, also lauded the governor for his “strong political will in taking up strong projects, including the increase in minimum wage.”
Abia Increases Salaries of Traditional Rulers
The Abia State Government has approved an increase in the monthly payments for traditional rulers in the state. Traditional leaders will now receive between N250,000 and N350,000, with an extra N100,000 added for members of the Traditional Rulers Council at the state and local levels. This decision was announced on Monday by the Commissioner for Information, Okey Kanu, following a State Executive Council meeting in Umuahia. READ ALSO: PSC Sacks two erring officers, punish others He said the government aims to honor traditional rulers and promote the state’s culture. Additionally, the government is working on updating its 30-year development plan to address current economic conditions. A State Economic Team will soon be inaugurated to handle the re-basing process, which involves adjusting the economy’s base year to reflect updated prices. READ ALSO: Peter Obi and Tinubu’s, APC’s morbid line The government has also revamped its Harmonized Taskforce to enforce rules against street trading and driving against traffic. These actions are intended to protect the state’s roads and prevent accidents caused by one-way driving. In education, Abia has begun implementing its Out-of-School Policy as schools reopen after the holidays. A special taskforce has been set up to ensure children return to school, with a goal of eliminating out-of-school children across the state.
New Tax Bill Will Ease Burden on Workers – FG Replied NLC
The Presidential Committee on Fiscal Policy and Tax Reforms has assured Nigerian workers of favorable provisions in the proposed tax reform bills. Despite concerns raised by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), which called for more consultations on the bills, the committee highlighted that the reforms prioritize the welfare of employees, particularly those in low-income brackets. According to the committee, individuals earning less than ₦1 million annually will be exempted from personal income tax, benefiting about one-third of workers across the public and private sectors. Workers with annual earnings up to ₦20 million will also see reduced tax rates, extending relief to an additional 60% of the workforce. READ ALSO: Catholic Priest Arrested for Murder Special exemptions have been outlined for members of the armed forces engaged in combating insecurity, reflecting targeted relief measures in the reforms. The committee encouraged the NLC to engage in discussions for further refinement of the bills, emphasizing the potential of the reforms to bring tangible benefits to Nigerian workers if implemented effectively. Analysts have however, observed that what the lower income earners gain in the form of tax exemption may be expended on the higher cost of goods and services due to the transfer of burden by goods and service providers who shall be paying higher taxes.
Kwara NLC Warns of Strike Over Unpaid November Salaries
The Kwara State chapter of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has given the state government a three-day deadline to resolve the unpaid November salaries of local government workers. According to the NLC, about 75% of the state’s workforce, including members of unions like the Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE), Medical and Health Workers Union (MHWUN), and the National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives (NANNM), are yet to be paid for November 2024. READ ALSO: How Abdulfattah Ahmed, Ex-Kwara Governor Allegedly Stole N5bn UBEC Fund – Witness The union has demanded that Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq address the delay by ensuring immediate payment. It stated that December salaries would not be accepted until the November arrears are cleared. The NLC has warned of statewide industrial action if the issue is not resolved by Thursday, December 19, 2024. This action could result in a shutdown of key services, potentially disrupting activities across the state. The union has called on the government to act promptly to prevent further unrest and maintain stability in the workforce.
Sani approves N72,000 minimum wage for Kaduna workers
Gov. Uba Sani of Kaduna State has approved a new minimum wage of N72,000 for civil servants in the state, with effect from November. Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Malam Ibraheem Musa, made the disclosure in a statement issued in Kaduna on Thursday. Musa said that the approval of the new minimum wage was part of the Sani-led administration’s commitment to workers’ welfare. He also said that the move was aimed at improving the living conditions of the low-income, the vulnerable and the underserved communities. Musa highlighted the governor’s longstanding commitment to advancing workers’ rights, enhancing their welfare and supporting disadvantaged groups in the state. In addition to the new wage policy, he said that the governor would also launch a Free Transport Scheme for civil servants, introducing 100 CNG-powered buses to provide daily transportation to and from work. According to him, the scheme, designed to ease financial burdens and improve productivity, will be managed by a Joint Management Committee, comprising NLC and TUC representatives and the state government. Musa restated the present administration’s commitment to implementing policies that would uplift the less-privileged and make the state a model for social welfare programmes, with the support of the citizens.
FG pays Corps members N33,000 for October
The Federal Government of Nigeria has once again paid the previous monthly allowance of N33,000 to National Youth Service Corps (NYSC) members for the month of October despite the recent announcement of a new N77,000 allowance. On the 25th of September, 2024, the federal government announced an increase in the monthly stipend for serving corps members from N33,000 to N77,000, effective from July 2024. The change was said to align with the National Minimum Wage (Amendment) Act 2024 and was considered a significant boost to the welfare package for corps members. However, despite the official announcement, corps members were paid the old allowance of N33,000 for September. In the latest development, some corps members confirmed that the implementation of the new allowance has still not commenced, as they received N33,000 for October instead of the approved N77,000.
Kano Governor Yusuf Approves New Minimum Wage for Workers
Governor Abba Yusuf of Kano State has approved a new minimum wage of N71,000 for civil servants, effective November. According to the governor, the increased wage will raise the state’s monthly salary obligations by N6 billion and N7 billion for local government councils. Additionally, 20,737 promoted teachers will receive a total increment of over N340 million. Yusuf praised the state minimum wage implementation committee for their efforts, reaffirming his administration’s commitment to workers’ welfare. A statement by Yusuf posted on his Facebook account reads: “The decision is in line with my administration’s commitment to social justice and the improvement of living standards for our workers. “In line with our commitment to social justice and enhancing the standard of living for our workers, we have approved the sum of 71,000 naira as the new minimum wage in Kano State.” “Additionally, following the promotion of 20,737 teachers by our government, a total increment amounting to over 340 million naira has now been reflected in their respective salaries.” “Once again, I commend the state minimum wage implementation committee for its commendable work. – AKY.”
Minimum Wage: Gov Mbah approves N80k
The governor of Enugu state, Peter Mbah has approved a new minimum wage of N80,000 for Workers in the state. The governor made the disclosure in a statement posted on his social media handle. He said, “I have just approved a minimum wage of N80,000 for Enugu workers, effective October 2024. “We appreciate the hard work and sacrifices of the state’s workforce and will continue to prioritise their welfare in line with our campaign promises. “Tomorrow is here.” It can be recalled that Governor Mbah in August inaugurated the committee for the implementation of the new national minimum wage for civil and public servants in the state. This followed the approval of N70,000 as the new national minimum wage by the Bola Tinubu-led Federal government.
Minimum Wage: Aiyedatiwa announces N73k
The Governor of Ondo State, Hon Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has announced the implementation of N73, 000 minimum wage for workers, stressing his administration’s commitment to the welfare of the people of the State. The Governor made the announcement during the flag off of the Ondo central senatorial district leg of the gubernatorial campaign of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ondo City on Saturday ahead of the November 16 election in the State. According to the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Prince Ebenezer Adeniyan, Aiyedatiwa said despite the fact that the federal government approved N70, 000 as the new minimum wage, Ondo will go a step further by paying N73, 000 to its workers. Governor Aiyedatiwa addressed the large crowd of supporters, urging them to convert their backing into votes for the APC to ensure the continuity of developmental initiatives across the state. He stated, “On November 16, I urge everyone gathered here and those who are not present to convert your support into votes for the APC to ensure the continuation of our significant progress in the state.“ Based on reports and my personal observations, I am confident that you all want this administration to continue beyond 2024. I see the love and appreciation from you, and I do not take it for granted. The best way to demonstrate this love is to vote for continuity, which will bring even more dividends of democracy.” The Governor highlighted the achievements of his administration over the past 10 months, stating, “During my time in office, we have initiated several important projects, including those started by the late governor. In agriculture, we’ve taken significant strides, boosting food production across the state. We’ve also approved over a billion naira for land clearing and launched various rural road construction projects to facilitate our farmers’ activities and improve productivity in rural areas.” The governor reaffirmed his dedication to enhancing security, the health sector, education, and youth empowerment. He noted that his administration’s efforts have made doctors more willing to stay in the state instead of leaving for opportunities elsewhere, a trend known as the “Japa” syndrome. To address this, he mentioned that his administration has increased doctors’ salaries and allowances. Engr. Ade Adetimehin, the State APC Chairman, also addressed the crowd, urging them to vote for the party to maintain its power. He emphasized Governor Aiyedatiwa’s commitment to infrastructural development across the state and reminded party members of the importance of safeguarding their voter cards, which are essential for ensuring the party’s continued leadership. Hon. Abiola Makinde, the House of Representatives member for Ondo East/West federal constituency, who is the campaign’s Director-General, praised Governor Aiyedatiwa as a proven and reliable leader who emerged through a transparent primary process. He encouraged supporters to return to their local communities and mobilize voters for the Governor, stressing the need for a strong turnout in the coming election. In her remarks, the Commissioner for Women Affairs, Mrs. Lola Fagbemi, highlighted Governor Aiyedatiwa’s significant accomplishments, including timely salary payments, road construction and rehabilitation and funding for WAEC fees for public schools. Former APC governorship aspirant, Chief Olusola Oke, called on party members to return to their respective units to secure votes for Governor Aiyedatiwa, adding that grassroots mobilization is crucial for the party’s success and urging every member to be fully committed to achieving victory on November 16. Hon. Kolade Akinjo, a former House of Representatives member for Ilaje Ese-Odo Federal Constituency and former PDP gubernatorial aspirant, hinged his decision to join APC on Governor Aiyedatiwa’s leadership style and development strides. The senatorial district campaign continues on Monday at Ikare Akoko for Ondo North Senatorial District.
We feel Betrayed, Joe Ajaero, NLC President
JOE AJAERO We are filled with a deep sense of betrayal as the federal government clandestinely increases the pump price of premium motor spirit (PMS). One of the reasons for accepting N70,000 as national minimum wage was the understanding that the pump price of PMS would not be increased even as we knew that N70,000 was not sufficient. We recall vividly when Mr. President gave us the devil’s alternatives to choose from: either N250,000 as minimum wage (subject to the rise of the pump price between N1,500 and N2,000) and N70,000 (at old PMS rates), we opted for the latter because we could not bring ourselves to accept further punishment on Nigerians. But here we are, barely one month after and with government yet to commence payment of the new national minimum wage, confronted by a reality we cannot explain. It is both traumatic and nightmarish. Yet, when we told government that it’s approach to resolving the fuel subsidy contradictions was patently faulty and would not last, it’s front row cheer leaders sneered at us, saying we did not understand basic economics . But if truth be told, this act of betrayal is consistent with the character of this government. We recall the assurances we were given by the leadership of the National Assembly on the 250% tariff hike, that it had been dealt with and there was no need to openly engage the Minister of Power who was at that meeting. Instead of the promised reversal, the rate has since been jerked up further putting more Nigerians and businesses in jeopardy. The combined effects of government’s ferocious right -wing market policies brought Nigerians and Nigeria to their all-time low and led to the End-Hunger/End Bad Governance protests. Rather than make amends, government arrested and hounded into detention some of those who took part and some of those who had nothing to do with these protests, charging them with criminal conspiracy, subversion, treasonable felony, terrorism financing and cyber crime with an intent to overthrow the government of President Tinubu. The police and other security agencies have since been on rampage terrorising the citizenry in pursuance of government’s agenda of muzzling lawful dissent. In brazen pursuit, they have defamed and libeled not a few individuals. They have gone as far as appropriating the statutory roles of the Ministry of Labour and Employment in resolving trade dispute matters and issues considered outside the jurisdiction of the security agencies. That the government is on rampage in the face of stifling conditions of living is an understatement but we promise Nigerians that we at the Nigeria Labour Congress will not be cowed into submission. Together with civil society, we brought about this democracy when some of the actors in power today were conspiring with the military on how to perpetuate their hold on political power. When the State and the security forces picked on us in a hybrid war, we had our suspicions. We knew they were up to something sinister and needed to distract/divert our attention or possibly frighten or weaken us before they came out with it so that we would not have a robust response. Now that they chickens have come to roost, we were right in our suspicions. However, we want to let Nigerians know that the clandestine/surreptitious increase in the pump price of PMS is the first among the equally sinister policies government has up its sleeve. On our part, we stand resolute with the people and will neither be distracted nor intimidated by the government or its security agencies. We insist that government cannot criminalise protests or basic rights in the domain of the citizenry. Accordingly, we demand the immediate: 1). Reversal of the latest increase in the pump of PMS across the country; 2). Release of all those incarcerated or being prosecuted on the assumption of having participated in the recent protests; 3). Halt the indiscriminate arrest and detention of citizens on trumped up charges; 4). Reversal of the 250% tariff hike in electricity; 5). Stop to the hijack of the duties of the Ministry of Labour and Employment; 6). End to policies that engender hunger and insecurity; 7). Halt to government’s culture of terror, fear and lying. We are guided by our belief in our country and the need to secure and sustain its sovereignty, integrity and welfare of the people. In the coming days, the appropriate organs of the Congress will be meeting to take appropriate decisions which will be made public. Comrade Joe Ajaero is the President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC)