The Kogi State Government has approved a new minimum wage of N72,500 for its workers, making it the first state to set a figure higher than the national minimum wage of N70,000. The state’s Commissioner for Information and Communications, Hon. Kingsley Fanwo, explained the decision in an interview, emphasizing that Governor Usman Ododo’s administration is committed to the welfare of the workforce, prioritizing their well-being to ensure better service delivery in the state.
Fanwo noted that while other states have delayed implementing the new wage due to administrative bottlenecks and ongoing negotiations with labor unions, Kogi State swiftly acted. A committee chaired by the head of service, with representatives from all labor unions, was formed to determine the appropriate wage. The committee met only four times, reaching an agreement based on the state’s allocation and internally generated revenue (IGR). This transparent approach led to the approval of the N72,500 wage.
Fanwo also highlighted the strong trust between the government and the labor unions, attributing this to the governor’s focus on transparency and worker welfare. “The level of confidence the workers have in Governor Ododo is unprecedented,” he said, pointing out that teachers and labor groups have openly supported the governor due to his consistent actions in improving their conditions.
The commissioner emphasized that Governor Ododo has improved the percentage payments to local governments, raising them to 100%, which was a major issue under the previous administration. The governor’s choice of a unionist and former Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) chairman as his running mate also boosted confidence among the labor community.
Fanwo concluded by asserting that the government has not only kept its promises but also incorporated labor representatives into key roles within the administration, ensuring that workers’ interests remain central to policy decisions.
