The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) in Oyo State has commended Governor Seyi Makinde for approving a new minimum wage of ₦80,000 for state employees. The decision, which was announced on Wednesday, has been hailed as a transformative step for worker welfare and economic stability within the state.
Dotun Oyelade, Oyo State Commissioner for Information and Orientation, confirmed that the governor’s approval came after recommendations from a technical committee formed to assess the viability of a wage increase. The committee’s findings underscored the need for enhanced wages to support the state’s workforce amid rising living costs.
Speaking to reporters in Ibadan, NLC Chairman Kayode Martins expressed gratitude to Governor Makinde, calling the increase a significant achievement. He noted that Oyo State workers will now be earning more than their federal counterparts, a first in the state’s history.
“Governor Makinde has shown exceptional leadership and a commitment to the well-being of the workforce,” Martins remarked. “This increase is not just a number—it’s a morale booster. Workers are now even more motivated to contribute effectively to the growth of Oyo State.”
The NLC Chairman encouraged the state’s negotiation team to ensure equitable adjustments across all salary grades, so that workers at all levels feel the positive impact of the increase. Martins also praised the patience and unity displayed by state employees throughout the minimum wage review process, highlighting their resilience as crucial to achieving this outcome.
In closing, Martins assured Governor Makinde of continued cooperation from labor unions to support policies aimed at benefiting Oyo’s workforce. He pledged that the unions would work alongside the government to further initiatives that enhance worker welfare, productivity, and the broader development of Oyo State.
