The Payment of the Minimum Wage will commence November 2024, Says Fubara

Payment of a new minimum wage of N85,000 has been approved by the Rivers State Governor Siminalayi Fubara for state civil servants, surpassing the national minimum wage. The agreement was reached during a closed-door meeting with representatives from the Joint Public Service Negotiating Council at the Government House in Port Harcourt. Dr. George Nwaeke, Head of the Rivers State Civil Service, confirmed that payments would begin in November 2024. He noted that the N85,000 wage reflects the governor’s commitment to workers’ welfare and is higher than the national standard. Nwaeke expressed satisfaction with the development, calling it unprecedented in the state’s history.

On the issue of arrears, Nwaeke explained that a technical committee, of which he will serve as deputy, has been formed to work out the details of any arrear payments. The committee will finalize the payment structure and share updates with the press in due course.

Emecheta Chuku, Chairman of the Joint Public Service Negotiating Council, praised the governor for approving the new minimum wage, despite facing numerous challenges. He emphasized that the wage approval demonstrates Governor Fubara’s care for the welfare of workers. Chuku added that the governor’s experience and understanding of the civil service make him especially aware of the importance of providing a livable wage.

Alex Agwanwor, Chairman of the Rivers State chapter of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), highlighted that the newly approved wage puts Rivers State on par with Lagos in terms of the highest minimum wage paid to civil servants in Nigeria. Agwanwor commended the governor for his commitment and assured him that the labor unions in Rivers State would continue to support his administration.

In a separate event, Governor Fubara addressed members of the Rivers State Traditional Rulers’ Council (RSTRC) during a solidarity visit to the Government House. He acknowledged the unwavering support of the people of Rivers State, including the royal fathers, and emphasized that such support has emboldened his administration. The governor promised to continue respecting the traditional institution and urged the royal fathers to maintain peace and unity within their communities.

Governor Fubara also announced the approval of official vehicles for recognized traditional rulers in the state. He instructed the Secretary to the State Government to coordinate with the traditional rulers to ensure that those in need of vehicles receive them, while those who prefer cash in lieu of vehicles will also be accommodated.

His Majesty, Chike Worlu Wodo, Chairman of the RSTRC and Eze Oha Apara IV of Apara Kingdom, led the traditional rulers in the solidarity visit. Wodo conveyed the Council’s support for Governor Fubara’s administration and commended the governor for his focus on infrastructure and human capital development over the past year. He also praised the administration’s investments in security, particularly in equipping the Nigeria Police and other security agencies to ensure the safety of lives and property.

The traditional rulers also passed a vote of confidence in Governor Fubara’s leadership. They expressed satisfaction with the peaceful manner in which the governor handled political challenges during the October 2024 local government elections. Wodo further urged Rivers State residents to continue promoting peace and unity, as demonstrated during the recent elections, which were largely peaceful despite limited security presence.

In addition to praising the governor, the Council of Traditional Rulers voiced their discontent with certain individuals who have been inciting violence within the state. Wodo noted that some prominent sons and daughters of Rivers State have been funding unrest, which the Council strongly condemns. He urged these individuals to stop their harmful activities, warning that such actions only hinder the progress of the state.

In conclusion, the traditional rulers reaffirmed their commitment to supporting Governor Fubara throughout his tenure, pledging to continue collaborating with the state government in ensuring the peace, stability, and development of Rivers State.