By Obansa Ibrahim, Lokoja
In a historic move, Kogi State Governor, Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, FCA, has unveiled a new minimum wage of ₦72,500 for civil servants in the state, effective immediately.
The approved N72,500 minimum wage the state workers, is N2,500 higher than the one that was approved in July by the federal government for workers in both private and public sectors.
This development comes after 17 state governors, including Kogi, established committees to implement the new minimum wage.
The unveiling ceremony took place at the Conference Hall of Government House, Lokoja, today, October 7, 2024.
Governor Ododo’s stressed that his administration has been working tirelessly to enhance the welfare of civil servants and promote economic growth in the state.
Gov Ododo who noted that the effective date of the Minimum wage administration is with immediate effect also declared that the tax burden of the Minimum wage on the Civil Servants has been suspended for one year.
In his words “after taking a look at all the indices and to alleviate the financial burdens of the Civil Servants, we have graciously approved the total sum of ₦72,500 an the new minimum wage for the state’s Civil Servants.
“My commitment to improving the lives of civil servants is evident in my administration’s efforts to provide better working conditions, social security, and fair wages. This move is expected to boost morale and productivity among civil servants
The governor maintained that he has also demonstrated his dedication to the development of the State, with initiatives such as infrastructure development, agricultural reform programmes, and improved healthcare services among others.