In a move to alleviate the economic challenges faced by workers in the state, the Edo State government has fulfilled its promise to increase the minimum wage from N40,000 to N70,000.
This development comes after Governor Godwin Obaseki's assurance that the new minimum wage would be implemented starting with the May 2024 salaries. The governor made this commitment during the recent inauguration of the Labour House in Benin, the state capital.
In a press statement released on Sunday, May 26, Edo Commissioner for Communication and Orientation, Chris Nehikhare, emphasized that the payment of the N70,000 minimum wage demonstrates the Obaseki-led administration's dedication to the welfare of Edo workers.
Nehikhare said, "The Edo State government has paid the May salaries of workers in the state, reflecting the implementation of the N70,000 new minimum wage. This is in fulfillment of the promise made by Governor Godwin Obaseki to increase the minimum wage from N40,000 to N70,000, beginning this May, as part of efforts to cushion the impacts of the harsh economy occasioned by fuel subsidy removal and other economic decisions by the Federal Government."
The commissioner further urged Edo workers to be committed to their duties, while contributing effectively to ensuring the governor finished well and strong on November 12, 2024, thereby reciprocating the gesture by the state government to their welfare.
This move by the Edo State government is seen as a positive step in addressing the economic challenges faced by workers and improving their standard of living.