From Ighomuaye Lucky, Benin
The Network of Civil Society Organisations (NOCSON) has commended Edo State Governor, Mr. Godwin Obaseki, for increasing the minimum wage for state and public sector workers from N40,000 to N70,000.
In a statement signed by its president, Comrade Emmanuel Ogbidi, NOCSON acknowledged the governor’s action as commendable, especially considering the current economic challenges facing the country.
“While we are known to criticize government policies when they are not in the best interest of the people, it is equally important to commend them when they do the right thing,” Ogbidi stated.
NOCSON believes the salary increase demonstrates the government’s sensitivity to the plight of its citizens and comes at a crucial time when the global economic downturn, reduced federal allocations, and inflation are putting immense pressure on workers.
The organization also congratulated organized labor for its support of the governor and urged them to reciprocate the gesture by delivering effective services to the people of Edo State.
Furthermore, NOCSON encouraged other states to emulate Edo’s example and increase their workers’ salaries. They emphasized that such actions would improve the purchasing power and standard of living for workers, ultimately contributing to improved service delivery.
NOCSON urged the Edo State government to implement the policy effectively from May 1, 2024, ensuring that all relevant MDAs and agencies are included. They also called on other sub-national governments in Nigeria to follow Edo’s lead in prioritizing worker welfare and setting a benchmark for minimum wage increases.