NECA minimum wage commendation praises Imo and Ebonyi for wage hikes, urging other states to follow suit while boosting worker training and welfare
The NECA minimum wage commendation has spotlighted Imo and Ebonyi states after they approved historic salary increases for civil servants, a move hailed as a major relief amid Nigeria’s tough economic conditions.
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Speaking on Channels TV’s Morning Brief on Tuesday, Adewale-Smatt Oyerinde, Director-General of the Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA), praised the new wage structures as proof of prudent governance, improved inflows from the Federation Account, or rising worker productivity.
Imo State recently set a new minimum wage of ₦104,000, while Ebonyi approved ₦90,000 for its workforce.
Oyerinde urged other states to replicate these measures, stressing that workers are vital drivers of economic growth.
“States have no excuse not to pay their workers fairly, especially given current economic realities. Reviewing wages is essential to motivate staff and enhance productivity, particularly with the fuel subsidy removal and other reforms,” he said.
He encouraged governors to use increased federal allocations wisely, balancing wage payments with long-term solutions to food security, housing, and sustainable governance.
Beyond salaries, Oyerinde underscored the importance of practical support, commending initiatives such as providing CNG buses for worker transportation.
He cautioned, however, that states must avoid offsetting revenue growth with excessive taxes on private businesses, as this could undermine ongoing federal tax reforms.
Oyerinde also emphasized the need for capacity development to complement wage increases.
“If workers are not adequately trained, governments risk undermining their own productivity objectives. Beyond paying minimum wage, states must equip employees with the skills necessary to match wage expectations,” he noted.
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Showcasing NECA’s efforts, he pointed to the association’s partnership with Microsoft to train Nigerians in artificial intelligence, highlighting how human capital development and fair wages can jointly power economic productivity.
