The Imo State Government has begun paying the newly approved ₦104,000 minimum wage to its workers, fulfilling its earlier pledge to increase salaries.
According to reports , employees in the state have started receiving payment alerts showing the updated wage structure, prompting widespread appreciation and praise for Governor Hope Uzodimma.
Previously, Uzodimma had announced that new government employees would receive ₦104,000, medical doctors ₦513,000, and lecturers in state-owned tertiary institutions ₦220,000 as starting salaries.
With this move, Imo State now leads other states in offering wages above the national minimum of ₦70,000.
Lagos State follows with ₦88,000, Rivers State pays ₦85,000, while Akwa Ibom and Bayelsa each offer ₦80,000.
According to a statement released by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Public Enlightenment, Prince Eze Ugochukwu, and made available to newsmen on Sunday, the new wage policy will strengthen the state’s economy and improve workers’ welfare.
Ugochukwu said, ”Governor Hope Uzodimma’s administration is spearheading this considerable policy change, which is poised to have a substantial impact on the state’s economic and social well-being.
“The goal of this wage hike is to bolster the financial capacity of workers, empowering them to better address their requirements and invest in goods and services. This, in turn, would give a shot in the arm to local businesses.
“Following Imo, Lagos is offering the next highest minimum wage, clocking in at ₦88,000, with Rivers coming in at ₦85,000. Akwa Ibom and Bayelsa are close behind, each offering ₦80,000.
“The ramifications of this adjustment will be far-reaching, with economic activity getting a boost. Increased spending will give the local economy a lift.”
The state government said the wage increase demonstrates its commitment to improving the welfare of civil servants and stimulating economic growth across Imo.
