During the 2024 World Teachers’ Day Celebration at the NUT (ENDWELL) Model College Sports Complex in Ibadan, Oyo State Governor, ‘Seyi Makinde, declared that his administration would commence the payment of the N70,000 minimum wage once the issue of consequential salary adjustment is resolved.
He also announced an extension of the N25,000 wage award to workers and a N15,000 wage award to pensioners for an additional three months to cover the negotiation period for the consequential adjustment.
Governor Makinde emphasized that the payment of these wage awards would cease upon the completion of negotiations aimed at effectively implementing the minimum wage. He stated, “Negotiations will start next week, and we will pay the N70,000 minimum wage. However, the consequential adjustment is currently under negotiation. The NLC and our team will engage in discussions.”
Acknowledging the challenges faced by the country, including issues related to minimum wage and fuel prices, Governor Makinde encouraged resilience by stating, “Tough times don’t last, but tough people do. We will overcome these challenges.”
Governor Makinde pledged to improve educational infrastructure, enabling teachers to impart knowledge in a conducive environment and secure a brighter future for the state. He expressed his gratitude to the teachers for their support during his campaign and their contributions to the development of Oyo State. Governor Makinde reiterated his commitment to prioritizing the welfare of teachers and all civil servants to ensure their continued productivity.
He announced plans for an annual education intervention fund of at least N10 billion, alongside the hiring of more teachers and ensuring they work in conducive learning environments to achieve better outcomes for students. He also reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to improving inner roads, particularly within the Owode Housing Estate.
During the event, NUT state Chairman, Comrade Raji Ismail, expressed gratitude to the governor for his “unprecedented achievements in the education sector” and his attention to teachers’ welfare through career progression, regular salary payments, promotions, leave bonuses, and healthcare insurance. Comrade Kayode Martins, Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) in the state, also conveyed a goodwill message, assuring that the governor is committed to implementing the minimum wage as expected.