Oborevwori Approves Immediate Payment of New Minimum
ASABA/Nigeria: Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has approved the implementation of the new minimum wage for workers in the state, effective from October.
The announcement was made by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Dr. Kingsley Emu, during a meeting with the leadership of the organised labour in Delta State on Wednesday.
The meeting, which brought together representatives of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), the Trade Union Congress (TUC), and the Joint Negotiating Council (JNC), was convened to finalise discussions on the new wage structure.
Dr. Emu explained that the decision to commence payment in October followed the receipt of the salary adjustment chart from the National Income, Salaries and Wages Commission. He further noted that while the state had not fully determined the long-term financial implications of the new wage structure, Governor Oborevwori directed that payments should commence immediately.
“The Governor feels the pains of the people and, as a labour-friendly leader, has instructed us to proceed with the payments, even though all the consequences of the adjustments on future cash flow have not yet been fully analysed,” Emu stated.
He added that discussions about the consequential adjustments had taken place over three sessions, with careful consideration given to the state’s financial capacity. Despite the uncertainties regarding future cash flow, Emu reiterated the Governor’s commitment to ensuring the welfare of Delta State’s workers by prioritising their needs.
In response, Comrade Goodluck Ofobruku, Chairman of the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) in Delta State, expressed his gratitude to the Governor for his swift action. He praised Oborevwori for upholding his promise to workers and easing the labour movement’s efforts.
“The Labour movement in Delta State appreciates Governor Oborevwori for graciously approving the implementation of the 2024 minimum wage without causing undue stress,” Ofobruku remarked.
He further acknowledged the Governor’s foresight, recalling that Oborevwori had assured labour that payments would be made promptly once the necessary adjustments were finalised by the National Income and Salaries Wages Commission. “Some doubted his commitment, thinking it was merely a political statement, but today he has proven otherwise by following through on his word,” Ofobruku added.
The labour leader also expressed confidence that any discrepancies in the implementation of the new wage structure would be addressed in due course, and thanked the Governor for his proactive approach in approving the payments while awaiting further clarifications.
The meeting concluded with both government and labour representatives expressing optimism that the prompt payment of the new minimum wage would significantly ease the financial pressures faced by workers in Delta State.
