The Abia State Government has officially approved a new monthly minimum wage, significantly enhancing compensation for civil servants.
Following a recent agreement between the state government and organized labor unions, employees at Grade Level (GL) 1, Step 15 will now earn N80,463.
The new wage structure was finalized during a signing ceremony at Government House, with Governor Alex Otti represented by Chief of Staff Caleb Ajagba. The agreement sets the minimum wage at N70,000 for GL 1, Step 1 employees, with a deadline for implementation set for October 2024.
The new wage adjustments are as follows:
GL 1, Step 1: N70,000
GL 1, Step 2: N70,700
GL 1, Step 15: N80,463
GL 10, Step 1: N99,707
GL 10, Step 15: N101,722
GL 17, Step 1: N254,667
GL 17, Step 9: N259,805
In addition to these rates, the agreement includes consequential adjustments based on grade levels:
GL 1-3: 5% increase
GL 4-6: 4% increase
GL 7-10:3% increase
GL 12-14:2% increase
GL 15-17: 1% increase
Governor Otti expressed his commitment to timely salary payments, assuring that all salaries would be paid by the 28th of each month. He emphasized that regular compensation would enhance employee morale and productivity, ultimately benefiting the state’s economy.
Otti commended the labor leaders for their patience and noted that the new wage plan is aligned with sustainable commitments, particularly given the financial challenges inherited from previous administrations.
Labor leaders, including NLC Chairman Okoro Ogbonnaya, praised the agreement, stating it would motivate workers to maximize their efforts. The Head of Service, Ngozi Queen Obioma, also expressed gratitude, emphasizing that employees are committed to reciprocating the gesture with dedicated service.
The agreement was signed by government representatives and leaders from the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC), reflecting a collaborative effort to improve labor standards in Abia State.
