By Fast Track News
Workers in Rivers State are jubilant following the implementation of the N85,000 minimum wage as promised by Governor Siminalayi Fubara. The confirmation of payment, which began on November 27, has been met with widespread commendation and gratitude from civil servants across the state.
Governor Fubara had earlier pledged to introduce the new wage structure in November, surpassing the federal minimum wage of N70,000 approved by President Bola Tinubu in July 2024. The federal initiative, a response to Nigeria’s ongoing economic challenges, was driven by pressures from the Nigeria Labour Congress. However, Rivers State took a more ambitious step, setting its minimum wage at N85,000 to address the specific needs of its workforce.
Commitment Backed by Internally Generated Revenue
In announcing the wage increase, Governor Fubara assured workers that the state would fund the new structure through its growing Internally Generated Revenue (IGR). Under his administration, the IGR has risen from N11 billion, recorded during the previous government, to N27 billion—a testament to his administration’s financial prudence and innovative revenue strategies.
Governor Fubara has also emphasized that the state’s developmental strides have been achieved without relying on external borrowing, a move he believes ensures long-term fiscal stability.
Confirmation of Payment
The Rivers State chapter of the Nigeria Civil Service Union has verified the payment of the new minimum wage. In an interview, the union’s chairman, Chukwuma Osunna, confirmed that the November salaries, calculated with the updated wage structure, have been disbursed.
“The Governor has fulfilled his promise,” Osunna stated. “As of today, November 27, 2024, I can confirm that workers have received the N85,000 minimum wage, and they are happy. We met under the joint council, reviewed the salary chart with the Head of Service, and confirmed that the calculation and implementation were accurate. Payment has started, and by tomorrow, other banks will process theirs as well.”
Osunna praised the administration’s commitment to workers’ welfare, adding that the union stands ready to support the government in its efforts to improve the state’s socio-economic landscape.
Workers Express Gratitude
Many state workers have expressed delight at the wage increase, noting that it will significantly improve their morale and productivity. In interviews, they described the implementation as a much-needed relief in the face of rising living costs.
“This is a huge step in the right direction,” one worker said. “Governor Fubara has shown he values the contributions of civil servants. This will motivate us to give our best in serving the state.”
The wage increase has also been lauded as an example of responsive governance, with citizens urging other states to follow Rivers’ lead in prioritizing workers’ welfare through innovative revenue management.
A New Era for Rivers State Workers
The implementation of the N85,000 minimum wage marks a milestone in Governor Fubara’s administration and a significant boost for the civil service. By aligning fiscal growth with social responsibility, Rivers State has set a benchmark for sustainable governance, reinforcing the importance of investing in the workforce to drive development.
As the new wage policy takes effect, the optimism among workers is expected to translate into improved service delivery, fostering progress across the state
