Imo State Governor Hope Uzodimma has approved the implementation of a ₦70,000 minimum wage for state workers, aligning with the federal government’s directive for nationwide pay raises issued in July. The decision followed a report submitted by a committee comprising representatives from the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Trade Union Congress (TUC), Joint Union Negotiating Council, and government officials after a two-day deliberation.

During the agreement signing, the governor announced that the unions had reached a consensus on the new minimum wage. Additionally, workers on consolidated salaries already earning ₦70,000 would receive a 10% salary increase. This move underscores the administration’s commitment to improving workers’ welfare in the state.

The governor also approved measures addressing other financial concerns for state employees. These include implementing promotions with financial benefits, increasing pension allowances for retirees following a comprehensive pension audit, and enrolling pensioners in the state’s Free Health Care Insurance Scheme.

On gratuity payments, Governor Uzodimma provided an update on pending payouts to retirees. At the local government level, 4,529 retirees are awaiting gratuities, while at the state level, the figure stands at 6,427. Payments will resume on November 26, covering 2,962 local government retirees and 2,742 state-level retirees in the initial phase. The remaining 1,567 and 2,685 retirees, respectively, will receive their payments in subsequent batches.

Governor Uzodimma emphasized his administration’s dedication to ensuring financial stability and welfare for workers and retirees, reflecting a commitment to fostering social and economic well-being in the state.