Uzodimma Approves N104K new minimum wage for Imo workers

…Increases Doctors’ pay to N533K

Omodele Adigun

Imo State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodimma, has announced a significant upward review of workers’ salaries in the state, approving a new minimum wage of ₦104,000 for civil servants.

The governor disclosed the development during a meeting with representatives of organised labour at the Government House in Owerri, noting that the wage adjustment was a response to current economic realities and the need to improve workers’ welfare.

Under the new wage structure, medical doctors employed in the state civil service will now receive ₦533,000 monthly, a move the governor said reflects his administration’s recognition of the critical role health professionals play in society.

According to Uzodimma, the salary increment was made possible by the state’s improved financial standing, driven by a boost in internally generated revenue (IGR) as well as higher allocations from the federal government.

The governor explained that the revised wage policy was not only designed to enhance the standard of living of Imo workers but also to inject more purchasing power into the economy of the state, thereby stimulating growth in the private sector.

In addition to the new wage structure, Governor Uzodimma revealed that his administration has earmarked ₦16 billion for the settlement of long-standing gratuity arrears owed to retirees in the state. He assured pensioners that the payment would commence soon as part of efforts to restore dignity to those who had served the state diligently.

“This decision is not just about salaries. It is about restoring hope and dignity to our workers and pensioners. We are committed to ensuring that their labour and sacrifice are rewarded, especially in these challenging times.”

The announcement was welcomed with applause by labour leaders and workers present at the meeting, who described it as a bold step towards addressing the hardships currently faced by many families due to inflation and the rising cost of living.

Analysts believe the new wage structure, if sustained, could position Imo State as one of the leading states in Nigeria in terms of workers’ welfare. However, they caution that proper fiscal discipline and transparency will be required to maintain the policy without jeopardising future development projects.