Responding to the needs of workers in the state civil service, the Anambra State government has established a committee to delve into the matter of minimum wage.
During a joint press briefing at the Government House, the respective state chairmen of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC), Humphrey Nwafor and Chris Ogbonna, revealed this initiative following a meeting with Governor Chukwuma Soludo.
In a recent gathering between organized labor representatives and state government officials, various issues including wages, pension, and service conditions were deliberated upon.
Following the meeting, Nwafor provided an update to the press stating, “Seven concerns were presented to the governor, encompassing contributory pension, minimum wage, Labour House, among others.”
He further accentuated, “The resolution of these matters was achieved amicably. Governor Soludo has halted the contributory pension and also formed a committee to address pension discrepancies and non-remittances. The findings will be reported back in eight weeks.”
Regarding the minimum wage, Nwafor noted, “We have noted that minimum wage calculations are based on the take-home salary, leading to a favorable resolution. Anambra has been consistent with minimum wage payments.”
The establishment of a committee by the governor to streamline wage matters and enhance the process was also acknowledged by Nwafor, as labor groups keenly await national and federal directives on the new minimum wage.
Nwafor expressed his contentment, “The prolonged struggle over minimum wage issues spanning five years has finally seen a positive conclusion. The committee’s evaluation will prompt an official announcement from the governor regarding wage increments.”
Furthermore, Nwafor mentioned, “Governor Soludo has allocated land for the construction of a Labour House. The committee overseeing wage adjustments will present their findings in three months for the governor’s decision on wage raises.”
The committee chairman and Secretary to State Government, Prof Solo Chukwulobelu, emphasized the Soludo administration’s commitment to supporting workers and ensuring a seamless transition upon the announcement of the new minimum wage.