Labour unions in Abia State have appealed to Governor Alex Otti to expand the implementation of the N70,000 minimum wage to include additional categories of public sector workers who are yet to benefit from the increase.
The call was made during the 2025 Workers’ Day celebration in Umuahia, where the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC) presented a joint address. The message was delivered by NLC State Chairman, Ogbonnaya Okoro, on behalf of himself and TUC State Chairman, Ihechi Enogwe.
Okoro listed workers still excluded from the wage adjustment, including environmental health officers, Ministry of Health workers, staff of the Abia State University Teaching Hospital, veterinary officers in the Ministry of Agriculture and local governments, employees in the Ministry of Social and Women Affairs, and staff under the Secondary Education Management Board.
He cautioned that failure to implement the new wage across all sectors could jeopardize industrial peace in the state.
Despite these concerns, the labour leaders praised Governor Otti for initiating the wage increase for state and local government workers. They also commended his efforts in improving infrastructure, education, and agriculture.
The unions further urged the government to clear outstanding arrears linked to the wage adjustment and fulfill its share of contributions under the new pension scheme. They also raised concerns about the impact of excessive taxation on workers’ salaries and called for urgent action.
Responding to the demands, Governor Otti reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to workers’ welfare and promised to carefully examine the issues raised. He noted that salaries are typically paid before the 28th of each month and revealed that his administration had settled over N30 billion in salary arrears inherited from the previous government.
Otti assured continued engagement with labour unions to ensure sustained reforms and progress across the state.
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