Benue Governor Approves One-Month Salary Arrears, Pledges Continued Support for Workers
…Stresses ₦75,000 minimum wage, pension reforms, training initiatives
BENUE State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, has approved the payment of one month’s salary arrears owed to civil servants since 2017. This was in response to appeals from labour unions during the 2025 Workers’ Day celebration in Makurdi.
Alia reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to workers’ welfare, highlighting key achievements, including a ₦75,000 minimum wage — ₦5,000 above the federal benchmark — and pension reforms ensuring timely payments.
He also announced training programs for over 40,000 workers in e-governance and introduced transportation subsidies to cushion the effects of fuel subsidy removal.
Ogun Speaker Calls for Dedication Amid Economic Hardship
…Urges Workers to Uphold Integrity, Support Gov. Abiodun’s Vision
OGUN State House of Assembly Speaker, Oluwadaisi Elemide, urged workers to remain dedicated and uphold professionalism despite economic challenges.
Speaking at the Workers’ Day event in Abeokuta, Elemide praised their contributions to the state’s development under Governor Dapo Abiodun’s administration.
He emphasized the need for resilience and teamwork to achieve sustainable progress, aligning with this year’s theme: “Reclaiming the Civic Space in the Midst of Economic Hardship.”
Wike Assures Workers of Inclusive Governance
…Says Voices of Labour Central to Policy-Making
FEDERAL Capital Territory (FCT) Minister, Nyesom Wike, reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to workers’ welfare, describing them as crucial to governance and economic reforms.
During the May Day celebration in Abuja, Wike outlined measures to improve working conditions, including prompt salary payments, training programs, and infrastructure upgrades.
He also addressed the ongoing strike by area council employees over minimum wage arrears, confirming the release of ₦4.17 billion for payments and urging council chairmen to comply.
Kogi Workers Appeal for Water Scarcity Resolution, Gratuity Payments
…Urge Ododo to Revive Lokoja Greater Water Works, Clear Pension Backlogs
ORGANISED labour in Kogi called on Governor Ahmed Ododo to address persistent water scarcity in Lokoja by restoring the Lokoja Greater Water Works.
The unions also appealed for the payment of accumulated gratuities and the implementation of pending promotions.
While commending Ododo for implementing the new minimum wage and regular salary payments, they stressed the need for further interventions to improve living standards.
The governor assured workers of his administration’s commitment to their welfare, citing monthly ₦100 million gratuity disbursements.
Edo Raises Minimum Wage to ₦75,000, Regularizes Casual Workers
Okpebholo Announces New Wage, Converts 1,000 Casual Staff to Permanent Roles
Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo, increased the minimum wage from ₦70,000 to ₦75,000, citing the need to enhance workers’ living standards.
He also disclosed the regularization of over 1,000 casual workers and the recruitment of 500 teachers.
The governor highlighted efforts to clear salary arrears and improve healthcare benefits for retirees.
The state NLC chairman commended Okpebholo’s policies, noting their positive impact on workers amid economic challenges.
Aviation Union Demands Respect for Workers’ Rights to Unionize
ATSSSAN President Warns Against Anti-Labour Practices in Industry
The Air Transport Services Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (ATSSSAN) emphasized workers’ constitutional right to associate freely, urging employers to respect labour laws.
National President Ilitrus Ahmadu, speaking in Lagos, called for dialogue in resolving disputes and praised aviation workers for their resilience despite economic hardships.
He stressed the importance of fair wages and safe working conditions to sustain industrial harmony.
NMA Advocates Better Welfare to Curb Brain Drain in Health Sector
Doctors Seek Non-Taxable Allowances, Improved Work Conditions
The Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) called for policies to retain healthcare professionals, including non-taxable call duty allowances and affordable housing loans.
Lagos NMA Chairman, Dr. Babajide Saheed, urged the government to address the “Japa syndrome” by improving remuneration and working conditions.
He also demanded the withdrawal of the proposed Consultant Pharmacy cadre, arguing it disrupts patient care.
Osun Governor Approves ₦4bn Bond for Pension Payments
…Moves to Clear Retiree Arrears Amid Economic Hardship
Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, approved a ₦4 billion bond to settle pension arrears for retirees under the contributory scheme.
Speaking at the Workers’ Day event in Osogbo, Adeleke acknowledged economic challenges but assured workers of his administration’s support.
The state NLC chairman praised the governor for implementing the ₦75,000 minimum wage and clearing promotion arrears, while urging further interventions like housing loans and recruitment into the civil service.
Workers Decry Rising Living Costs, Call for Wage Review
Labour Leaders Say ₦70,000 Minimum Wage No Longer Sustainable
Nigerian workers lamented the worsening economic conditions, citing high fuel prices, electricity tariffs, and inflation as major concerns.
At May Day events nationwide, labour leaders urged the government to review the minimum wage and reduce taxes on essential goods.
Some workers, like federal civil servant Modupe Ojo, argued that the current wage is insufficient given hyperinflation, while transport unions called for reduced import duties on vehicles to ease operational costs.
Kano Implements ₦71,000 Minimum Wage, Announces Civil Service Reforms
Yusuf Unveils Training Programs, Pension Overhaul to Boost Productivity
Kano State Governor Abba Kabir-Yusuf introduced a ₦71,000 minimum wage and comprehensive civil service reforms, including regular training and pension system improvements.
Speaking at the May Day celebration, Yusuf emphasized the need for transparency and efficiency in governance.
He also pledged to review operational documents like the Civil Service Rules to align with global best practices, ensuring better service delivery.
Conclusion
This year’s Workers’ Day celebrations across Nigeria highlighted both progress and persistent challenges.
While some states announced wage increases and welfare packages, labour unions nationwide continue to push for better working conditions, improved salaries, and policies to mitigate economic hardships.
The calls for inclusive governance and respect for workers’ rights remain central as governments and labour leaders navigate the country’s economic realities.
