Workers in Rivers State have expressed gratitude and excitement following the implementation of a new ₦85,000 minimum wage under the leadership of Governor Siminalayi Fubara.
The announcement, which surpasses the national minimum wage, has been celebrated as a significant step toward improving the livelihoods of workers in the state.
Governor Fubara, who made the pledge during his election campaign, delivered on his promise as the new wage officially took effect this month.
The policy positions Rivers State as one of the most progressive states in terms of worker compensation, reflecting a commitment to addressing economic challenges faced by public sector employees.
“This is a breath of fresh air. We’ve been struggling with inflation and rising costs of living, and this increase shows that the governor truly cares about the welfare of workers,” said a civil servant in Port Harcourt.
The Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) and other workers' unions in the state have lauded the decision, describing it as a benchmark for other states to follow.
“This is a bold and commendable move. Governor Fubara has set a precedent that other states should emulate. Workers’ welfare is critical to economic growth and development,” said an NLC representative.
The increase is expected to boost morale among civil servants, with many predicting improved productivity and job satisfaction.
Economists also believe the move will stimulate local spending and contribute to the state’s economic development.
While the announcement has been widely praised, some stakeholders have raised questions about the sustainability of the new wage structure, urging the state government to ensure that revenue generation matches the financial commitment.
Governor Fubara’s decision has set Rivers State apart as a trailblazer in workers’ rights, inspiring optimism about future labor policies in Nigeria.
Workers are hopeful that this new era of enhanced compensation will translate to better service delivery and a more robust public sector.
The implementation of the ₦85,000 minimum wage signals a transformative moment for workers in Rivers State, as they look forward to reaping the benefits of this landmark policy.