MINIMUM WAGE: Oborevwori Directs Immediate Implementation From October

Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has approved the payment of the new minimum wage to workers in the state with effect from October. 

Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Dr. Kingsley Emu, disclosed this, Wednesday, during a meeting of the Committee on the new minimum wage with the leadership of the Organized Labour in Delta State.

Emu said the meeting, which was attended by representatives of the Nigeria Labour Congress, (NLC), the Trade Union Congress (TUC), and the Joint Negotiating Council, (JNC), was at the instance of Governor Oborevwori, who had directed immediate payment of the new minimum wage.

“The minimum wage committee earlier agreed that we can’t make payment until the National Income Salaries and Wages Commission sends the chart. We have now received the chart and we have in the last three sessions gone through the consequential adjustments and implications on our cash flow. 

“Although we have not been able to determine all the ramifications of the consequential adjustments on the future cash flow requirements of the state, the Governor directed we go ahead to pay because he feels the pains of the people as a labour friendly Governor.” 

Responding, the Chairman of the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC), Comrade Goodluck Ofobruku, commended Governor Oborevwori for the prompt approval, adding that he had made the work of labour easier. 

“The Labour movement in Delta State appreciates Governor Oborevwori for graciously approving the implementation of the 2024 minimum wage in Delta State without stressing us. 

“He has made the job of labour to be less difficult. Before the National Income and Salaries Wages Commission released the chart and consequential adjustments, the Governor did assure labour and workers in the state that he will pay any time the chart is out. 

“Some people thought he was making a political statement but today he has proved that his promise was not just a political statement. 

“We thank him for giving the go ahead to implement the payment while we correct any discrepancies

It would be recalled that Governor Sheriff Oborevwori at the celebration of this year’s Workers’ Day, promised to pay the new N70,000 minimum wage approved by the Federal Government, via an Act of the National Assembly.