The Imo State Government has begun paying the new ₦104,000 minimum wage to workers, fulfilling its promise to increase salaries. State employees have received alerts reflecting the new wage structure, expressing excitement and gratitude to Governor Hope Uzodimma.

Governor Uzodimma had approved the following salaries: ₦104,000 for fresh government workers, ₦513,000 for medical doctors, ₦220,000 as entry-point salary for lecturers in state-owned tertiary institutions.

Imo State now leads the pack, paying above the national minimum wage of ₦70,000. The top-paying states are: Imo State: ₦104,000, Lagos State: ₦88,000, Rivers State: ₦85,000, Akwa Ibom State: ₦80,000, Bayelsa State: ₦80,000

According to Prince Eze Ugochukwu, Special Adviser to the Governor on Public Enlightenment, the new wage policy aims to strengthen the state’s economy and enhance workers’ welfare, as stated in a release made available to newsmen on Sunday.

Ugochukwu stated, ”Governor Hope Uzodimma’s administration is spearheading this considerable policy change, which is poised to have a substantial impact on the state’s economic and social well-being.

“The goal of this wage hike is to bolster the financial capacity of workers, empowering them to better address their requirements and invest in goods and services. This, in turn, would give a shot in the arm to local businesses.

“Following Imo, Lagos is offering the next highest minimum wage, clocking in at ₦88,000, with Rivers coming in at ₦85,000. Akwa Ibom and Bayelsa are close behind, each offering ₦80,000.

“The ramifications of this adjustment will be far-reaching, with economic activity getting a boost. Increased spending will give the local economy a lift.”

The state government attributes the wage increase to its commitment to enhancing civil servants’ welfare and boosting economic growth in Imo.