**Akwa Ibom Gov Approves N80,000 Minimum Wage: Daily Trust**
In a groundbreaking move to prioritize the welfare of Akwa Ibom State workers, Governor Dr. Umo Eno has given the green light to pay a minimum wage of N80,000 to 45,984 verified employees. This decision comes after the meticulous review conducted by the Committee on the Implementation of the New Minimum Wage/Personnel Verification, led by the Head of Service, Elder Effiong Essien.
Historic Decision for Akwa Ibom Workers
The announcement of the N80,000 minimum wage marks a significant milestone in the efforts to uplift the livelihoods of nearly 46,000 workers in the state. With the payment set to commence at the end of January and retroactively apply from November 2024, Governor Eno’s administration is demonstrating a strong commitment to addressing the economic challenges faced by the workforce.
Transparent Verification Process
Governor Eno expressed his gratitude to the committee for their diligent work in ensuring a transparent verification process. Out of the initial staff strength of 55,120, a total of 52,177 individuals participated in the verification exercise. However, 2,943 personnel failed to attend, while 6,193 encountered issues during the verification process.
Commitment to Continued Oversight
Emphasizing the government’s dedication to upholding accountability and efficiency, Governor Eno affirmed that the Office of the Accountant General, Auditor General, and Director of Budget will be tasked with finalizing the implementation details. For the remaining employees awaiting verification, an additional 30-day window has been provided to complete the process before facing potential salary suspension.
In a heartfelt message to the organized labor sector, Governor Eno extended a hand of collaboration and unity to foster a harmonious relationship between the government and workers. He highlighted the substantial efforts made by the administration to settle gratuities amounting to over 47 billion and provide essential support to the people of Akwa Ibom State.
Future Steps Towards Accountability
Looking ahead, Governor Eno emphasized the importance of extending the verification exercise to retired workers’ pension schemes to prevent any discrepancies in payment distribution. Acknowledging the committee’s recommendation for an annual verification process, the governor pledged to implement this practice to ensure continued transparency and efficiency in the state’s workforce management.
As the state embarks on this transformative journey towards fair wages and enhanced accountability, Governor Eno’s unwavering commitment to the well-being of Akwa Ibom workers shines through as a beacon of hope for a brighter future.
