Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has approved a new minimum wage of N85,000 for civil servants in the state.
This decision was finalized during a private meeting between the Governor and representatives from the Joint Public Service Negotiating Council at the Government House, Port Harcourt.
A statement from the Governor’s Chief Press Secretary, Nelson Chukwudi, confirmed the development and indicated that the new wage will take effect from November 2024.
Speaking after the meeting, Dr. George Nwaeke, Head of the Rivers State Civil Service, expressed gratitude for the Governor’s decision, noting that the approved wage exceeds the national minimum wage.
He added that this is a significant milestone for civil servants in Rivers State, as they had not seen such favorable treatment in recent years.
Dr. Nwaeke also mentioned that a technical committee has been set up to explore the payment of arrears and other financial details.
He emphasized that the committee, which includes key government officials, will provide further updates once the specifics are worked out.
Emecheta Chuku, Chairman of the Joint Public Service Negotiating Council, described the decision as a positive step, commending Governor Fubara for his commitment to improving workers’ welfare.
He noted the Governor’s resolve to offer such a generous wage despite the state’s current challenges.
Alex Agwanwor, Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) in Rivers State, pointed out that with this approval, Rivers State now matches Lagos in offering one of the highest minimum wages in the country.
He praised the Governor’s leadership and assured him of the labor unions’ continued support.
Agwanwor also hailed Governor Fubara as a champion of workers’ rights, calling him the most labor-friendly governor in Nigeria. He added that union representatives would soon brief civil servants about this new development and the Governor’s consistent efforts to support the workforce.