Full list of Governors set to implement N70,000 minimum wage

President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration marked a significant milestone in labor relations by signing into law a new national minimum wage of ₦70,000 on July 29, 2024. This policy, aimed at addressing the rising cost of living, represents a substantial increase from the previous minimum wage of ₦30,000, which had been in effect since 2019. The decision emerged from a series of intense negotiations led by the Tripartite Committee, which included representatives from Organized Labour, the private sector, and the federal government.

While the new wage is seen as a positive step toward improving the welfare of Nigerian workers, the implementation has sparked varied responses across the country. Some state governors have welcomed the increase and announced plans to adopt the new wage structure, while others have raised concerns about their states’ financial capacity to sustain the heightened payroll.

READ ALSO: Labour explains reasons behind delays in minimum wage implementation

Here is a comprehensive list of state governors who have confirmed their readiness to implement the new ₦70,000 minimum wage:

1. Babajide Sanwo-Olu (Lagos State):
   Governor Sanwo-Olu has consistently positioned Lagos as a leader in worker welfare. Even before the federal directive, Lagos State had been paying above the national minimum wage. On August 10, 2024, the Lagos State Commissioner for Information and Strategy, Gbenga Omotoso, reiterated the governor’s commitment, ensuring that Lagosian civil servants continue to receive their dues timely and without delay.
2. Ademola Adeleke (Osun State):
   Governor Ademola Adeleke, known for his populist policies, affirmed Osun State’s readiness to implement the ₦70,000 minimum wage. On July 19, 2024, Osun’s Commissioner for Information, Kolapo Alimi, highlighted the governor’s dedication to improving the welfare of state workers, stressing that the new wage is a critical component of his administration’s broader economic plan.
3. Godwin Obaseki (Edo State):
   Governor Obaseki took proactive steps by initiating the payment of the ₦70,000 minimum wage even before it became a federal mandate. His administration has been commended for prioritizing public sector reform and ensuring that civil servants receive adequate compensation amid rising inflation.
4. Hyacinth Alia (Benue State):
   On July 19, 2024, Governor Hyacinth Alia confirmed Benue State’s readiness to adopt the new wage structure. His administration has implemented various measures to enhance financial transparency and efficiency, ensuring that the state can meet the increased wage bill.
5. Babagana Umara Zulum (Borno State):
   Known for his robust approach to governance, Governor Babagana Zulum has expressed his administration’s full commitment to the new wage policy. On July 21, 2024, the Borno State Nigeria Labour Congress chairman, Inuwa Yusuf, praised the governor’s efforts, noting that the state is well-positioned to implement the new wage without compromising other developmental projects.
6. Seyi Makinde (Oyo State):
   Governor Seyi Makinde, who has been recognized for his progressive governance, assured Oyo State workers of his commitment to implementing the ₦70,000 minimum wage. On July 29, 2024, Chief Press Secretary Sulaimon Olanrewaju confirmed that the state’s financial health would support the new wage, reflecting Makinde’s focus on sustainable economic policies.
7. Abdullahi Sule (Nasarawa State):
   Governor Abdullahi Sule indicated his administration’s readiness to implement the new wage on August 6, 2024. His Senior Special Assistant on Public Affairs, Comrade Peter Ahemba, noted that the governor’s commitment to worker welfare is unwavering, with plans already underway to ensure smooth and timely payments.
8. Lucky Aiyedatiwa (Ondo State):
   Governor Lucky Aiyedatiwa of Ondo State has confirmed the state’s willingness to implement the new minimum wage. This commitment was echoed in a statement on August 6, 2024, by Ondo State Head of Service, Mr. Bayo Philip, emphasizing that the governor values the contributions of civil servants to the state’s development.
9. Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri (Adamawa State):
   Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri, on August 19, 2024, approved the new ₦70,000 minimum wage for civil servants. His administration has been lauded for its worker-friendly policies, with the governor highlighting that this move underscores his dedication to improving the standard of living for all state employees.

The Road Ahead

While these governors have set a precedent by committing to the new wage, the broader challenge lies in the fiscal sustainability of this policy across all Nigerian states. With varying revenue streams and economic conditions, not all states may find it easy to adopt the new wage structure. The federal government’s role in providing support to less economically robust states will be crucial in ensuring that the new minimum wage achieves its intended purpose of enhancing the livelihood of Nigerian workers nationwide.

As more states consider their positions, the coming months will reveal the true impact of this policy on the Nigerian economy and the daily lives of its citizens. For now, the commitment of these governors offers a glimmer of hope for civil servants eager to see the benefits of a more equitable wage structure.

Stay tuned to Daily News 24 for more updates on this developing story and other top headlines across Nigeria.