The Governor of Imo State, Hope Uzodinma, has approved a ₦70,000 minimum wage for state civil servants, marking a significant step in enhancing the welfare of workers in the state.
In addition to this, Governor Uzodinma also announced the commencement of gratuity payments for retirees, revealing that a total of 4,529 retirees at the local government level and 6,427 at the state level are owed gratuities, some of which have been pending since 2006. This move comes as part of the government’s commitment to addressing long-standing financial obligations to retired workers in the state.
The Governor’s approval followed the submission of a detailed report by the implementation committee, which was made up of representatives from the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Trade Union Congress (TUC), Joint Union Negotiating Council, and the Imo State Government. This report was based on two days of intensive deliberations between the various stakeholders involved.
While addressing the committee members, Governor Uzodinma emphasized that all the unions operating within the state had come to an agreement on the ₦70,000 minimum wage. He further stated that those on consolidated salaries, who are already earning the ₦70,000 minimum wage, would receive an additional 10 percent on top of their current salaries to further improve their compensation.
Effective from Tuesday, November 26, 2024, the state government will begin the process of paying gratuities to a total of 2,962 retirees at the local government level and 2,742 retirees at the state level. The remaining outstanding balance, which involves 1,567 retirees from the Local Government Area and 2,685 retirees from the State, will be settled in the coming one or two batches, as announced by the Governor.
Governor Uzodinma reiterated that his administration is committed to improving the welfare of Imo workers, recognizing their invaluable contributions to the state, and ensuring that pensioners who served in their prime years are appropriately compensated for their service to the state.
In response to the Governor's announcements, Comrade Uche Chigemezu Nwaigwe, Chairman of the Imo State Council of the NLC, expressed his gratitude to the Governor for his generosity and prompt action in addressing the welfare of the state’s workers.
Similarly, the TUC Chairman, Comrade Uchenna Ibe Great, pledged that workers would honor the Governor’s gesture by responding with greater dedication and productivity in their respective duties, aiming to ensure the continued growth and development of Imo State.
