In a significant development, Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State has approved the implementation of a N70,000 minimum wage for workers in the state. This decision follows a report submitted by the implementation committee, comprising representatives from the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Trade Union Congress (TUC), Joint Union Negotiating Council, and the state government.
The governor announced that the payment of outstanding gratuities to retirees from local and state governments would commence on Tuesday, November 26. Additionally, he pledged to review pension allowances upward after completing the ongoing pension audit.
Governor Uzodimma stated, “All the unions operating in the state had agreed on the minimum wage, and in addition, those on consolidated salaries who are already on the N70,000 minimum wage will get an additional 10 percent on top of their salaries.”
The governor also approved the implementation of the financial effect of the last promotions of Imo State workers, the upward review of pension allowances for retirees after the conclusion of the ongoing pension audit, and the onboarding of Imo State pensioners in the State’s Free Health Care Insurance Scheme.
The outstanding gratuity since 2006 at the local government level stands at 4,529 retirees, while that at the state level stands at 6,427 retirees. However, Governor Uzodimma assured that effective Tuesday (26/11/2024), his government will resume gratuity payments to 2,962 retirees at the local government level and 2,742 at the state level.
The governor reiterated his administration’s commitment to making Imo workers happy and ensuring that pensioners who invested their youthful energy in serving the state are adequately rewarded.
The NLC and TUC Chairmen expressed their excitement and appreciation for the governor’s approval of the minimum wage and other benefits. The NLC Chairman, Comrade Uche Chigemezu Nwaigwe, applauded the governor for “his benevolence to Imo workers” and assured that “the workers will reciprocate the gesture by being more dedicated to duty and more productive.”
Comrade Nwaigwe specifically thanked the governor for the payment of gratuity to pensioners of both the local government and state levels, and more importantly, the inclusion of pensioners in the Free Health Care Insurance Scheme of Imo State.
The TUC Chairman, Comrade Uchenna Ibe Great, also appreciated the governor for the pronouncements, assuring that the workers and the entire people of Imo State will be comfortable with them.
The approval of the minimum wage and other benefits is a significant development for Imo State workers and pensioners. It demonstrates the governor’s commitment to improving the welfare of workers and pensioners in the state.
Governor Uzodimma’s administration has taken a significant step towards improving the lives of Imo State workers and pensioners. The implementation of the minimum wage and other benefits is expected to have a positive impact on the state’s economy and the welfare of its citizens.
