Governor Otti: No Confirmation Of Federal Government Wage Award

Governor Otti: No Confirmation Of Federal Government Wage Award

Abia State Governor, Alex Otti, clarified that his state did not receive the ₦35,000 wage award announced by the federal government for workers. Governor Alex Otti made this disclosure during a meeting on Friday with the leadership of Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Trade Union Congress (TUC), and the Joint Negotiating Council at his country home in Nvosi, Isiala Ngwa South Local Government Area……. CONTINUE READING

Labour had issued an indefinite strike notice to the Abia State government, scheduled to commence on July 15, citing issues such as non-compliance with the ₦30,000 minimum wage and non-payment of the federal wage award to state workers.

Governor Otti stated categorically that his administration had not received any funds from the federal government for the wage award implementation. He emphasized, “There have been misleading reports claiming that the Federal government allocated funds to state governments for this purpose. As of now, no such funds have been received by Abia State.”

Addressing concerns about the ₦30,000 minimum wage compliance, Governor Otti asserted that according to the payroll he oversees, no worker in the state earns less than ₦30,000. He expressed willingness for a reconciliation between Organized Labour and the Office of the Accountant General to resolve any discrepancies.

Regarding the demand for a new minimum wage, Otti affirmed his administration’s commitment to increasing wages in line with current economic realities. He clarified that decisions on this matter would await federal government directives and discussions with organized labour at the national level.

Additionally, Governor Otti announced plans to establish a Ministry of Labour and Productivity aimed at fostering a positive relationship between the government and labour unions, underscoring his commitment to maintaining a harmonious working environment.