The Imo State Government has commenced payment of the new N104,000 minimum wage to workers, fulfilling its earlier promise to review salaries upward.

PUNCH Online learnt that the state employees received alerts reflecting the new wage structure, sparking excitement and gratitude towards Governor Hope Uzodimma for the implementation.

Recap Uzodimma had approved the payment of N104,000 for fresh government workers, N513,000 for medical doctors, and N220,000 as the entry-point salary for lecturers in state-owned tertiary institutions.

With the implementation, Imo State now tops the list of states paying above the national minimum wage of N70,000.

Lagos State follows with N88,000, Rivers State pays N85,000, while Akwa Ibom and Bayelsa each offer N80,000.

According to a statement released by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Public Enlightenment, Prince Eze Ugochukwu, and made available to newsmen on Sunday, the new wage policy will strengthen the state’s economy and improve workers’ welfare.

Ugochukwu said, ”Governor Hope Uzodimma’s administration is spearheading this considerable policy change, which is poised to have a substantial impact on the state’s economic and social well-being.

“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 N88,000, with Rivers coming in at N85,000. Akwa Ibom and Bayelsa are close behind, each offering N80,000.

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

The state government said the wage increase demonstrates its commitment to improving the welfare of civil servants and stimulating economic growth across Imo. (Sunday PUNCH)