By Sunday Apah
Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has given the green light for the immediate payment of the new minimum wage to state workers, effective October.
This announcement was made by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Dr. Kingsley Emu, during a recent meeting with the leadership of organized labor in Delta, including representatives from the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Trade Union Congress (TUC), and the Joint Negotiating Council (JNC). The gathering focused on the implementation of the minimum wage.
Dr. Emu explained that the meeting followed Governor Oborevwori’s directive to commence payments beginning this month. He stated, “The minimum wage committee previously agreed on holding off payments until we received the chart from the National Income Salaries and Wages Commission. Now that we have obtained the chart, we have conducted thorough reviews of the consequential adjustments and their impacts on our financial planning.”
He added, “While we are still assessing all aspects of these adjustments and their future implications for the state’s cash flow, the Governor has instructed us to proceed with payments. His commitment to the welfare of the people shines through, as he is truly a labor-friendly leader.”
In response, Comrade Goodluck Ofobruku, Chairman of the Nigerian Labour Congress, praised Governor Oborevwori for his swift approval of the new wage. He noted, “The labor movement in Delta State expresses its gratitude to Governor Oborevwori for facilitating the implementation of the 2024 minimum wage without complications.”
Ofobruku acknowledged that the Governor had previously assured labor representatives that payments would be made once the necessary guidelines were issued, dismissing notions that such assurances were merely political rhetoric. He concluded, “We are thankful for the Governor’s decisive action and look forward to addressing any discrepancies as they arise.”
