The Oyo State Government, under the leadership of Governor Seyi Makinde, has announced an increase in the minimum wage to N80,000, effective January 1, 2025. This adjustment will raise the state’s monthly wage bill from N6.4 billion to N11.9 billion, resulting in an annual commitment of over N143 billion to salaries and wages.
The announcement was made by the Commissioner of Information and Orientation, Prince Dotun Oyelade, during a meeting with the Chairman of the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC), Comrade Kayode Martins. Oyelade reaffirmed the governor’s commitment to prioritizing the welfare of workers while ensuring the continued development of critical sectors across the state.
Governor Makinde’s administration has consistently demonstrated its support for workers. Notably, the governor addressed a long-standing promotion crisis by implementing a proactive four-year promotion of workers, a move described as unprecedented in the state’s history.
A Benchmark for Other States
Comrade Kayode Martins commended Governor Makinde’s administration, describing it as “workers’ friendly” and noting that the new wage structure is more favourable than those of other states and even the federal government.
According to Martins, workers on Grade Levels 1 to 6 will see their salaries rise from N30,000 to N80,000, marking a N50,000 increase. Similarly, workers on Grade Level 7 and above will enjoy adjustments ranging from N70,000 to over N180,000. For example, a worker on Grade Level 17 earning N170,000 will now receive N360,000 monthly.
Martins highlighted that Oyo State was the first to implement the N30,000 minimum wage and began negotiations for the new wage before the federal government approved the N70,000 minimum wage. He also pointed out that while other states made incremental adjustments, Oyo’s scale is unmatched.
Boosting Worker Morale and the Economy
The NLC chairman emphasized the morale boost provided by Governor Makinde’s consistent payment of salaries on the 25th of every month. This practice not only strengthens the confidence of civil and public servants but also positively impacts the state’s economy.
Martins further noted that the strong relationship between the state government and labour unions is evident in the exemption of Oyo State from the national industrial action by unions on December 2.
Governor Makinde’s administration continues to set a benchmark for prioritizing worker welfare, fostering economic growth, and maintaining industrial harmony.
