In a significant step to improve workers' welfare in Kwara State, His Excellency, Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, has given approval for the new minimum wage of N70,000, as outlined by the Federal Government of Nigeria. This announcement was made in a statement issued by the state government over the weekend.

According to the Honourable Commissioner for Finance, Dr. Hauwa Nuru, who signed the statement, the newly approved wage will be implemented across Kwara State's public service, with immediate effect starting from October 2024.

As highlighted in the statement, this decision involves consequential adjustments to the related salary structures. The agreement was reached following a successful tripartite meeting involving government officials, leadership from the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Trade Union Congress (TUC), and the Joint Negotiating Council (JNC), as well as representatives from the organised private sector.

Dr. Nuru, who is the co-chairman of the minimum wage committee, expressed appreciation to Governor Abdulrazaq for giving the committee full autonomy to reach a consensus that benefits all parties involved.

The immediate implementation of this new wage underscores Governor AbdulRazaq's proactive and worker-friendly approach, she said.

The Governor, Dr. Nuru added, remains committed to the welfare of public servants and all citizens of Kwara State, as part of the broader vision for sustainable development and economic stability.

The template also covers workers in the 16 local government areas of the state, she said.

Governor AbdulRazaq’s administration continues to prioritise the well-being of its workforce and the general populace, demonstrating its dedication to fostering growth and prosperity for all in Kwara State, according to the Commissioner.

Dr. Nuru appreciated His Excellency’s leadership and foresight, noting that this new wage policy is a timely and much-needed measure that will help cushion the effects of the current economic realities in a sustainable way.

She also commended the collaborative spirit between the government and the labour unions, which made this achievement possible.

The new minimum wage is a testament to the state’s commitment to ensuring that workers’ welfare remains at the forefront of its policies, she added.