By Rosely Andrew, Owerri
There was widespread jubilation across Imo State on Monday as civil servants began receiving credit alerts reflecting the new ₦104,000 minimum wage approved by Governor Hope Uzodimma.
The payment, which fulfills the governor’s earlier promise, positions Imo as the highest-paying state in Nigeria under the new wage structure, ahead of Lagos, Rivers, Akwa Ibom, and Bayelsa states.
Excited workers expressed gratitude to God and the governor for what they described as a “historic gesture” that will significantly improve their living conditions.
A few weeks ago, Governor Uzodimma had approved ₦104,000 as the minimum wage for newly employed state workers, ₦513,000 for medical doctors, and ₦220,000 as the entry-level salary for lecturers in state-owned tertiary institutions.
According to a statement by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Public Enlightenment, Prince Eze Ugochukwu, the implementation of the new wage demonstrates the administration’s commitment to workers’ welfare and economic development in the state.
“Governor Hope Uzodimma’s administration is spearheading a major policy shift that will have far-reaching impacts on the state’s economy and social well-being,” Ugochukwu said.
“The goal of this wage increase is to strengthen the financial capacity of workers, enabling them to meet their needs, support their families, and stimulate local businesses through increased spending.”
With the commencement of the ₦104,000 minimum wage, Imo State now leads the chart of states implementing new pay structures followed by Lagos (₦88,000), Rivers (₦85,000) while Akwa Ibom and Bayelsa trail slightly with ₦80,000 each.
Observers say the development will not only enhance workers’ productivity but also inject fresh energy into Imo’s economy by boosting demand and promoting small and medium-scale enterprises (SMEs) across the state.
