In a decisive move to alleviate economic hardship, Governor Hope Uzodimma of Imo State on Wednesday announced substantial increases to the minimum wages of civil servants across the state.
Speaking at the Government House in Owerri during a meeting with labour union representatives, Governor Uzodimma disclosed that the general minimum wage would rise to ₦104,000 from the former ₦76,000.
Under the revised wage structure, medical doctors will now earn a minimum of ₦503,000, up from ₦215,000; while lecturers and other staff in tertiary institutions will receive ₦222,000, compared to the previous ₦119,000.
“There is no way any government will do well if it doesn’t have a friendly and cordial relationship with the organised labour,” Uzodimma said.
“When workers are paid well, productivity rises, families are happier, and the local economy grows. This is our way of investing in Imo people. The government believes in stimulating political and economic activities, carrying bureaucrats along, and making sure that workers’ welfare is highly respected.”
The Governor attributed the feasibility of these sweeping wage increases to the improved financial outlook of Imo State. He revealed that Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) had surged from ₦400 million to over ₦3 billion monthly.
Similarly, federal allocations have risen from the ₦5–7 billion range in 2020 to approximately ₦14 billion today. Additionally, he noted a considerable reduction in the state’s debt burden—from over ₦280 billion to less than ₦100 billion.
Reflecting on his tenure, Governor Uzodimma remarked that when he assumed office in 2020, the state’s infrastructure across sectors was in near-total collapse. Since then, large sums have been deployed to reconstruct roads and tackle insecurity challenges.
He also acknowledged the mixed impact of the fuel subsidy removal, stating: “It is a thing of joy that we have started seeing the dividends of that bold decision of President Bola Tinubu to remove fuel subsidy. What the government is confronted with now is how to ensure that the dividends of that policy trickle down to the common man on the street.”
The Governor further announced that, beginning 27th August, the state would commence payment of the final ₦16 billion in gratuities owed to pensioners. He described the move as part of his administration’s commitment to workers’ welfare.
He also outlined health sector reforms, including the launch of a health insurance scheme and the equipping of facilities to deliver “world-class” care. Furthermore, he declared Imo’s participation in the federal initiative to establish 1,000 businesses in each active INEC ward.
In response to the announcement, Mr Uchechigemezu Nwigwe, Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress (Imo State), applauded the Governor.
He described the wage increase as “a victory for the entire workforce in the state,” adding, “Today, no worker in Imo will say you (Uzodimma) have not been fair to us.”
He also prayed for the Governor’s protection and assured him that the workforce would reciprocate with “more diligent, efficient, and effective service.”
Mr Uchenna Ibe, state Chairman of the Trade Union Congress, praised the governor for exhibiting “strong political will in taking up strong projects, including the increase in minimum wage.”
The wage adjustment situates Imo among the Nigerian states offering one of the highest minimum wages.
The decision of the state government reflects improved fiscal health and momentum towards fulfilling wage-related promises long demanded by labour bodies.
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