Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State has firmly stated that the proposed N80,000 minimum wage for state civil servants will only be implemented after a comprehensive verification exercise.
The governor emphasized that no amount of pressure, including potential industrial action by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), would cause him to sidestep this important process.
Speaking during the 17th annual State Christmas Carol Service in Uyo, themed “Peace and Holiness with All Men,” Governor Eno reassured civil servants of a 13th-month salary payment. However, he clarified that the bonus would be calculated based on the current salary structure until the verification exercise is concluded.
“As your governor, we will pay 13 month. We have already calculated it and will pay based on the old salary structure. The new minimum wage will not commence until the verification exercise is completed,” he explained.
Governor Eno highlighted his administration’s commitment to transparency, stating that an accurate record of state civil servants is essential for implementing the new wage structure.
“Nobody will force me to pay without proper verification. Once the NLC, which is part of the verification committee, provides the report, we will start payments immediately,” he added.
Additionally, in the spirit of the holiday season, the governor announced a special Christmas initiative. He revealed that each of the state’s 2,272 villages would receive 20 bags of rice to share among residents. He urged community leaders to ensure fair distribution, stating, “Hunger knows no party.”
