Gov. Douye Diri of Bayelsa has approved N80,000 as the new minimum wage for workers in the state’s civil service with effect from November 1.

Mr Diri also approved an increase in the monthly pension of retired workers as well as N7 billion to reduce outstanding gratuity liabilities.

This is contained in a statement  issued on Sunday, by Daniel Alabrah, the chief press secretary to the governor.

He said Mr Diri acknowledged the challenging times workers face in the state due to the rise in the cost of living.

He said  the related consequential adjustments for the various sectors, as agreed with the leadership of labour in the state, would also be implemented.

The statement read: “to address the harsh times and in line with the National Minimum Wage (Amendment Act 2024), the Prosperity Administration of governor Douye Diri has approved the sum of N80,000 as minimum wage for the state’s workers. 

“Gov. Diri also approved an increase in the monthly pension of state retirees.

“To further ameliorate the challenges of our retired senior citizens, His Excellency also approved the payment and reduction of the outstanding gratuity liabilities by Seven Billion Naira.”

He said the governor appreciated the workers and their leadership for their understanding, patience and commitment to the policies and programmes of the administration.

 (NAN)