Kazeem Yahaya
Ekiti State Governor, Mr. Biodun Oyebanji, has asserted that state governors are not obstructing the implementation of the new national minimum wage for workers.
Addressing some workers in Ado Ekiti, Governor Oyebanji dismissed the notion that governors are opposing the new wage or planning to lay off workers.
He stressed the significance of fiscal federalism, noting that any agreed-upon minimum wage must be financially sustainable for state governments.
Governor Oyebanji explained that without a corresponding increase in state revenue, governors would struggle to meet the new wage requirements.
Reassuring Ekiti State workers of his commitment to their welfare, he cited several initiatives and achievements, including the regular payment of gratuities, salaries, and wage awards; the provision of free shuttle buses; the recruitment of teachers; and substantial investment in agriculture.
The Ekiti state helmsman also sought the continued support of civil servants, assuring them that free shuttle bus services for workers would continue even after the implementation of the new minimum wage.
Governor Oyebanji’s remarks comes amid broader discussions on wage policy and fiscal responsibility at the state level, underscoring the need for a balanced approach to workers compensation and state financial plans.
