We’re confident Gov Fubara will pay new minimum wage – NLC

The Rivers State chapter of the Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, said it has no doubt the state government will smoothly implement the N70,000 minimum wage for civil servants.

Speaking in an exclusive interview with Newsmen NLC State Chairman Alex Agwanwor stated that, unlike its relationship with the past administration, the union is now working collaboratively with the current government to benefit both workers and the administration.

Agwanwor highlighted Governor Siminalayi Fubara’s promise on May Day, 2024 to implement the minimum wage agreed upon by the Federal Government.

He commended Governor Fubara for his commitment to workers’ welfare, noting that there have been no misunderstandings between the union and the government.

“So, Rivers State presently, the kind of relationship we have is a collaborative one and a mutual one, a relationship that will be beneficial to both the workers and the government.

“Since Sir Siminialayi Fubara came on board, we are all aware of the efforts he has made in terms of improving the conditions of work, in terms of the welfare of workers in Rivers State.

“And he understands the issues. Most times we have not had any cause to disagree on anything because even before we mention the issue, he knows it; he only goes straight and does what he thinks he is supposed to do.

“I don’t see any disagreement between the state council of NLC or even the organised labour in Rivers State having any issues with the government of Rivers State paying the minimum wage of N70,000, and the governor had come to inform us clearly during the Workers Day that he will pay anything the government agrees.

“The implementation of the minimum wage in Rivers State is not in doubt; if any other state can pay, Rivers State can pay; we have that confidence where the governor is,” he added.

President Bola Tinubu signed the new Minimum Wage Act into law on Monday, July 29, 2024.

The new law increased the minimum wage from N30,000 to N70,000.