The Edo State Government has begun paying the new N70,000 minimum wage to workers in the state. This increase, from the previous minimum of N40,000, fulfills the promise made by Governor Godwin Obaseki to raise the minimum wage starting in May 2024.
During the recent inauguration of the Labour House in Benin City, the state capital, Governor Obaseki announced the decision to increase the minimum wage for workers in Edo State. This raise from N40,000 to N70,000 is aimed at cushioning the impacts of the harsh economy on the people of the state.
In a statement on Sunday, the State Commissioner for Communication and Orientation, Chris Nehikhare, confirmed that the Edo State Government has paid May salaries to workers, reflecting the implementation of the new N70,000 minimum wage. Nehikhare stated that this demonstrates the Obaseki administration’s commitment to the welfare of Edo workers, even paying the increased wages before the end of the month.
The wage hike is part of the state government’s efforts to address the economic challenges faced by workers, such as those resulting from fuel subsidy removal and other decisions by the Federal Government.