Governor Hope Uzodimma has began the payment of an improved benefit of service to workers in Imo State.

According to reports, the civil servants in the state received alerts reflecting the new minimum wage of ₦104,000 while they celebrated the development.

Recall that Governor Uzodimma had promised to pay ₦104,000 to entry-level workers, ₦513,000 to medical doctors, and ₦220,000 as the entry-point salary for lecturers in state-owned tertiary institutions.

This was disclosed by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Public Enlightenment, Prince Eze Ugochukwu who said the new wage policy would strengthen the state’s economy and improve workers’ welfare.

According to Punch, Ugochukwu said the wage increase demonstrated the state's commitment to improving the welfare of civil servants and stimulating economic growth across Imo.

Imo State has now topped the list of states paying above the national minimum wage of ₦70,000 across the country. “The goal of this wage hike is to bolster the financial capacity of workers, empowering them to better address their requirements and invest in goods and services.

This, in turn, would give a shot in the arm to local businesses. “Following Imo, Lagos is offering the next highest minimum wage, clocking in at ₦88,000, with Rivers coming in at ₦85,000. Akwa Ibom and Bayelsa are close behind, each offering ₦80,000.

“The ramifications of this adjustment will be far-reaching, with economic activity getting a boost. Increased spending will give the local economy a lift.”