By Paulinus Obaji
Governor Francis Nwifuru has officially inaugurated the members of the implementation committee for the 70 thousand Naira minimum wage approved by President Bola Tinubu-led administration.
He performed the inauguration on Monday, 30th September 2024 at Abakaliki, the state capital.
The governor, represented by the Secretary to the State Government (SSG), Professor Grace Umezurike, emphasized his administration’s commitment to ensuring the well-being of the Ebonyi State workforce.
Nwifuru assured his dedication to workers’ welfare throughout his administration in the state.
Nwifuru's action was in response to the Federal government’s announcement of the new minimum wage.
Our correspondent reports that the newly inaugurated committee comprises of His Royal Highness, Barr. Boniface Ezeagu as Chairman, and Mrs. Mfon Williamson, Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Finance as the Secretary.
Other members of the committee included the state Head of Service - Dr Ritamary Okoro, the State Chairman of Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC - Prof Egwu Oguguo, and State Chairman of Trade Union Congress, TUC - Comrade Chidi Igboji, and Comrade Patrick Ekwe - the Chairman Joint Negotiating Council (Trade Union Side).
Others included High Chief Hyacinth Ikpor, Chief Mrs. Ugo Nnachi, and Mr Cajetan Oketa.
Others included High Chief Hyacinth Ikpor, Chief Mrs. Ugo Nnachi, and Mr Cajetan Oketa.
While giving the committee members terms of reference, Nwifuru tasked them to determine the formula used by other states in the South East, North East, and North Central to implement the new wage structure.
He said the committee would be expected to submit its recommendations to the state government by 31st October 2024.
“The terms are clear and we trust that the committee will deliver in line with the best practices observed across the country.
In his acceptance speech, the chairman of the committee, His Royal Highness Barr. Boniface Ezeagu expressed gratitude for the opportunity to serve.
“On behalf of this committee, I thank the Ebonyi State government for entrusting us with this responsibility. It is a daunting task, but with God’s grace, we will execute it to the satisfaction of the government and the entire workforce of the state,” Ezeagu assured.
