Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodimma, has announced a sweeping wage increment for civil servants, doctors, and lecturers, placing the state among the top-paying in Nigeria.
Speaking at the Government House, Owerri, the governor disclosed that civil servants will now earn ₦104,000 monthly, up from ₦76,000. Doctors’ minimum wage was reviewed from ₦215,000 to ₦503,000, while lecturers in tertiary institutions will now receive ₦222,000, up from ₦119,000.
Governor Uzodimma emphasized that his administration had prioritized strong ties with labour unions, noting that workers’ welfare is critical to economic growth.
He said, “Government believes in stimulating political and economic activities, carrying bureaucrats along, and making sure that workers’ welfare is highly respected.”
The governor further revealed that Imo State’s Internally Generated Revenue has grown from ₦400 million to over ₦3 billion monthly. He noted that the state’s debt profile, which stood at ₦280 billion in 2020, has now dropped to under ₦100 billion.
Uzodimma also announced that ₦16 billion in outstanding gratuities would be paid to pensioners beginning August 27.
Labour leaders expressed delight over the decision. The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) Chairman, Mr. Uchechigemezu Nwigwe, described the increment as a huge relief for workers, while the Trade Union Congress (TUC) Chairman, Mr. Uchenna Ibe, praised the governor’s courage in implementing bold reforms.
Frontpagenews.ng reports that Uzodimma urged workers to remain diligent, stressing that unethical practices would not be tolerated.
