The Abia State Government has dismissed allegations by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) that it is among 14 states yet to implement the N70,000 minimum wage. In a press conference held at the Government House, Umuahia, on Sunday, the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Pastor Caleb Ajagba, clarified that Abia began paying the new minimum wage in October, making it one of the first states to comply.
Ajagba expressed shock at Abia’s inclusion on the NLC’s list, stating, “It is misinformation. Abia workers received their first salaries based on the new minimum wage in October, and this continued in November.” He reaffirmed Governor Alex Otti’s commitment to prioritizing workers’ welfare and ensuring industrial harmony.
Organized Labour leaders, including NLC Chairman Comrade Ogbonnaya Okoro and TUC Chairman Comrade Ihechi Eneogwe, corroborated Ajagba’s claims but pointed out discrepancies affecting workers between grade levels 8 and 16.
“While workers at levels 1 to 7 benefited fully, those at levels 8 to 16 saw anomalies where some junior staff earned more than senior ones. This issue has been brought to the government’s attention for resolution,” Okoro stated.
The government pledged to address these concerns promptly, maintaining that workers’ satisfaction remains a priority.
The press conference was attended by top state officials, including the Commissioner for Finance, Mr. Uwaoma Ukandu, and the Head of Service, Dr. Ngozi Obioma, alongside other government representatives.
