Lokoja, Nigeria – In a landmark decision, the Kogi State Government, under the leadership of Governor Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo, has announced a new minimum wage of ₦72,500 for civil servants, effective immediately. This was revealed during a ceremony at the Conference Hall of Government House, Lokoja, on Monday, October 7, 2024.
The announcement follows the establishment of committees by 17 state governors, including Kogi, to implement a new wage structure across the states. Governor Ododo expressed that the wage increase is part of his administration’s commitment to improving the welfare of civil servants and ensuring economic stability in the state.
“After a thorough review of all economic indices and in an effort to alleviate the financial burdens on civil servants, we have approved the sum of ₦72,500 as the new minimum wage, effective immediately,” Governor Ododo stated during the unveiling. He also declared that civil servants would be exempted from the tax burden on the new wage for a one-year period.
The governor further emphasized that the new minimum wage aligns with his administration’s broader efforts to enhance the quality of life for workers, boost morale, and promote productivity. His administration has also been noted for various developmental initiatives, including infrastructure improvements, agricultural reforms, and healthcare advancements.
This wage increment is expected to have a significant impact on the state’s workforce, improving the livelihoods of civil servants while contributing to the overall economic growth of Kogi State.