Ogun State workers can expect positive changes soon as Governor Prince Dapo Abiodun has announced that his administration is actively working on implementing the new minimum wage. The Governor made this commitment during a recent meeting with organized labor leaders at the Governor’s Office in Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta.

Governor Abiodun acknowledged the critical role that workers have played in the state’s economic development and promised that Ogun State would lead in the swift implementation of the new minimum wage. He stated, “We are fully committed to rolling out the new minimum wage and ensuring that Ogun State is at the forefront of this initiative. We are working diligently to address all challenges, improve efficiency, and increase revenue to support this commitment.”

He called for continued collaboration from organized labor, noting that their support has significantly contributed to the state’s economic growth, with the budget increasing from under N400 billion to N703 billion, and performance currently at 80 percent. The state is also projecting a budget of one trillion Naira for the next fiscal year.

Addressing the impact of the recent fuel subsidy removal, Abiodun explained the state’s measures to mitigate its effects. The Governor highlighted the administration’s energy transition efforts, including converting mass transit buses to CNG, introducing electric motorcycles and tricycles, and providing affordable rice and CNG kits to commercial vehicles.

He revealed plans to receive 20 federal CNG buses and add 100 CNG buses from the state government to improve transportation and reduce costs by 50-80 percent. Abiodun attributed the current fuel scarcity and price hikes to operational and financial challenges, alongside subsidy removal and the floating of the Naira.

The Governor emphasized the state’s commitment to energy transition as a sustainable solution, noting that similar transitions have been successful in other countries. He also announced the establishment of a Presidential CNG Initiative and the state’s role as a hub for vehicle transition in the southwest.

To further support citizens, the state will set up farmers' markets in three zones to offer affordable foodstuffs and establish a task force to monitor transportation fare hikes, involving labor representatives.

In response, Comrade Hameed Benco, State Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), praised the Governor for including labor in decision-making and urged enforcement of price regulations. He also requested special transport arrangements for workers and students.

Comrade Akeem Lasisi, State Chairman of the Trade Union Congress (TUC), suggested allowing workers to work from home until conditions improve. Comrade Isa Olude, Chairman of the Joint Negotiation Committee, called for relief measures for workers and pensioners.

The Head of Service, Mr. Kehinde Onasanya, commended the Governor for addressing workers' concerns and demonstrating strong leadership in enhancing their welfare.