NLC, NECA, Esele Applaud Salary Increase in Imo, Ebonyi, Urge Other States to Follow Suit

By Taiwo Olapade

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), the Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA), and former President of the Trade Union Congress (TUC), Peter Esele, have commended the governments of Imo and Ebonyi States for their recent decision to increase workers’ salaries.

The Imo State Government recently announced an increase in workers’ pay to ₦104,000—₦34,000 above the ₦70,000 minimum wage—while Ebonyi State added ₦20,000 across board for its workforce.

Speaking at the seventh quadrennial delegates’ conference of the National Union of Civil Engineering Construction, Furniture and Wood Workers (NUCECFWW), NLC President, Comrade Joe Ajaero, described the move as highly commendable. He noted that the decision vindicated the NLC’s long-standing demand for better wages.

According to him, “If states like Imo can pay ₦100,000 and above, considering that it is not among the highest earners in terms of revenue allocation, then other states should be encouraged to do more.”

Supporting Ajaero’s stance, the NLC Chairperson in Lagos, Comrade Funmi Sessi, welcomed the development, expressing hope that other governors would take a cue from Governor Hope Uzodinma of Imo State.

She added that Lagos Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, had earlier promised improved welfare for workers, noting that the time has come for an upward review of salaries in the state. “At least someone has taken the bull by the horns and opened the space for others to copy a good example,” she said.

Sessi stressed that Lagos workers deserve higher wages and better working conditions in line with current economic realities, especially with rising inflation. She revealed that the Lagos NLC chapter is prepared to engage the state government towards securing salary increases and improved welfare packages.

On his part, NECA’s Director-General, Mr. Smart Oyerinde, said the decision by both states reflects recognition of workers’ contributions to Nigeria’s socio-economic development. He argued that with the sustained rise in federal allocations to states, improved welfare for workers is now both necessary and achievable.

Also reacting, former TUC President, Mr. Peter Esele, described the gesture as a clear show of love for workers. He emphasized that such measures will not only improve living standards but also enhance productivity across the country.