Labour leaders in Enugu State have clarified reports about the payment of the new minimum wage, confirming that the implementation of the N80,000 minimum wage began in November 2024.
In a joint statement issued by the state chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Fabian Nwigbo; Trade Union Congress (TUC) chairman, Ben Asogwa; and chairman of the Joint Public Service Negotiating Council (JPSNC), Ezekiel Omeh, the leaders acknowledged the state’s efforts but highlighted some concerns.
“We acknowledge that the Enugu State government paid the N80,000 minimum wage approved by the governor in the November salary. However, the payment did not reflect the consequential adjustments typically associated with minimum wage implementation,” the statement read.
The labour leaders revealed that they had formally communicated these discrepancies to Governor Peter Mbah and expressed confidence in his commitment to addressing the issue. “His Excellency has always demonstrated magnanimity towards workers’ welfare, and we strongly believe this matter will be resolved soon,” they added.
They also commended the governor for consistently paying the N25,000 wage increment introduced in December 2023 up until October 2024, before approving the new minimum wage.
The statement reaffirmed the union’s trust in the governor’s dedication to improving workers’ well-being and assured workers that labour representatives remain committed to ensuring fair and comprehensive implementation of the new wage structure.