The Edo government said it has begun paying the N70,000 new minimum wage to workers in the state, fulfilling its promise to increase the minimum wage from May 2024.

Governor Godwin Obaseki announced the increment in workers’ salaries in the state from N40,000 to N70,000 during the inauguration of the Labour House in Benin.

Mr Obaseki said the increment was to reflect the country’s current economic realities and cushion the impacts of the harsh economy on the state’s people.

In a statement, the State Commissioner for Communication and Orientation, Chris Nehikhare, said the payment of the N70,000 minimum wage to workers would further demonstrate the Obaseki-led administration’s commitment to the welfare of Edo workers.

“The Edo government has paid the May salaries of workers in the state, reflecting the implementation of the N70,000 new minimum wage; this is in fulfilment of the promise made by Obaseki.

“It is also in furtherance of the commitment of the state government to meet its statutory obligations even before the end of the month,” he said.

The commissioner urged the workers to commit to their duties and reciprocate the gesture by the state government.

(NAN)