Ogun State workers may soon celebrate as Governor Prince Dapo Abiodun announced that his administration is advancing efforts to implement the new minimum wage.
During a meeting with labor leaders at the Governor’s Office, Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, the governor acknowledged the vital role workers play in the state’s rapid economic growth.
He assured labor unions that Ogun State would be at the forefront of implementing the new wage policy.
Regarding the new minimum wage, Abiodun stated: “Our team is fully committed and, as always, Ogun will lead in implementing the minimum wage.”
He urged his administration to work efficiently, plug financial loopholes, and increase revenue to ensure smooth wage payments without undue strain on citizens.
Abiodun called for continued collaboration with organized labor, emphasizing that their support has contributed to the state’s increased budget, which has grown from under N400 billion to N703 billion, with an 80% performance rate. He also revealed plans for a trillion-Naira budget next year.
The governor initiated the meeting to address the impact of fuel subsidy removal and find sustainable solutions.
He elaborated on the oil sector challenges, acknowledging that recent federal government decisions, led by President Bola Tinubu, aim to reposition the economy. To alleviate the burden on residents, the state has introduced measures, including transitioning mass transit to CNG and launching electric motorcycles and tricycles.
Abiodun discussed the success of these initiatives and announced federal support, including rice at subsidized rates and 500 CNG conversion kits for commercial vehicles. Additionally, the federal government would supply 20 CNG buses, while Ogun State would provide 100 more to transport unions, potentially reducing transportation costs by 50-80%.
The governor linked current fuel scarcity and price hikes to subsidy removal and exchange rate adjustments, but expressed optimism that a full transition to CNG and electric vehicles would ease transportation costs.
He noted that Ogun is set to become the southwest hub for the CNG transition, owing to its early adoption of the program.
To support residents further, farmers’ markets will be established in three zones across the state, and a task force will monitor transportation fare hikes, with labor unions included.
In response, NLC State Chairman Comrade Hameed Benco thanked the governor for involving labor in key decisions and urged for regulation of market prices, as some vendors exploit the economic situation.
TUC State Chairman Comrade Akeem Lasisi suggested remote work for workers to reduce hardship, while Joint Negotiation Committee Chairman Comrade Isa Olude called for additional relief for workers and pensioners.
Head of Service, Mr. Kehinde Onasanya, praised the governor’s resolve, saying he consistently demonstrates commitment to workers’ welfare.
