Kwara Endorses Implementation of N70,000 Minimum Wage

Kwara State Governor, Mallam AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq, has officially approved a new minimum wage of N70,000, in line with the recent announcement by the Federal Government of Nigeria. In a statement issued on Saturday, Dr. Hauwa Nuru, the Commissioner for Finance, announced that this salary adjustment will take effect immediately from October 2024 across the Kwara State public service.The decision follows a productive tripartite meeting involving government officials, leaders from the Organised Labour in Kwara State—including the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), the Trade Union Congress (TUC), and the Joint Negotiating Council (JNC)—as well as representatives from the private sector.Dr. Nuru, co-chair of the minimum wage committee, expressed gratitude to Governor AbdulRazaq for granting the committee full autonomy to devise a consensus that serves the interests of all parties. “The prompt implementation of this new wage reflects Governor AbdulRazaq’s proactive and worker-friendly approach,” stated the commissioner.She reiterated the Governor’s commitment to the welfare of public servants and all citizens of Kwara State, emphasizing a broader vision for sustainable development and economic stability. The new wage structure will also extend to workers in all 16 local government areas of the state.According to Commissioner Nuru, Governor AbdulRazaq’s administration prioritizes the well-being of its workforce and the general public, showcasing a dedication to fostering growth and prosperity throughout Kwara State. Nuru acknowledged AbdulRazaq’s leadership and foresight, characterizing the implementation of this wage policy as a timely and essential action intended to alleviate the impact of current economic challenges sustainably. She also praised the collaborative efforts between the government and labor unions, which were instrumental in achieving this milestone, stating, “The new minimum wage is a testament to the state’s commitment to prioritizing workers’ welfare in its policy framework.”