11th September, 2024
By Adejoke Adeleye
Ogun State workers are set to benefit soon as Governor Dapo Abiodun has assured that his administration is working diligently to implement the new minimum wage.
During a meeting with organized labour leaders at the Governor’s Office in Oke-Mosan, Abeokuta, Abiodun emphasized the crucial role workers have played in the state’s economic growth and vowed that Ogun would not lag behind in rolling out the new wage structure.
“We are working assiduously on the new minimum wage, and I assure you Ogun will not be second in its implementation,” the governor said.
“I have instructed my team to intensify efforts, find creative solutions, block loopholes, and boost revenue, ensuring we can afford the new wage without overburdening the people.”
Governor Abiodun acknowledged the vital partnership between his administration and labour, which he credited for the state’s economic success.
The state budget, he noted, has grown from under N400 billion at the start of his tenure to N703 billion, with a performance rate of 80%.
He revealed plans for a N1 trillion budget in the coming year.
Cushioning the Effects of Fuel Subsidy Removal
The meeting also addressed the challenges arising from the federal government’s removal of the fuel subsidy.
Governor Abiodun outlined his administration’s initiatives to mitigate the impact on the people, including the transition to cleaner energy sources.
“We have launched a program to convert mass transit buses to Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) and introduced electric motorcycles and tricycles,” Abiodun said.
He added that ongoing discussions with transport unions have focused on expanding access to these alternative energy solutions to reduce transportation costs.
He further disclosed that the federal government would provide 500 CNG conversion kits for commercial vehicles in Ogun, while 120 CNG buses would soon be available to state transport unions.
This, he noted, could lower transport costs by up to 80%.
Addressing Economic Realities
The governor attributed rising fuel prices to the subsidy removal and currency fluctuations, but expressed optimism that the state’s commitment to energy transition would yield long-term benefits.
“With our shift towards CNG and electric vehicles, we expect transport costs to fall significantly, as over-reliance on petrol decreases,” he stated.
Abiodun highlighted the creation of a Presidential CNG Initiative to drive this transition, positioning Ogun State as a key player in southwest Nigeria’s shift to cleaner energy.
Support for Workers Amidst Economic Hardship
In response to rising food prices, the governor announced plans to establish farmers’ markets across the state to offer affordable foodstuffs. He also formed a task force, including labor representatives and transport union executives, to monitor arbitrary fare hikes and enforce price regulation.
Labour Leaders Urge Further Relief
Labour leaders at the meeting lauded the governor’s efforts but called for additional measures.
Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) Chairman, Comrade Hameed Benco, urged stricter enforcement of price controls, while Trade Union Congress (TUC) Chairman, Comrade Akeem Lasisi, suggested allowing workers to work from home to ease transportation costs.
Joint Negotiation Committee Chairman, Comrade Isa Olude, also advocated for further relief for workers and pensioners.
Head of Service, Mr. Kehinde Onasanya, commended the governor for his proactive stance on workers’ welfare, praising his resolve to address their concerns effectively.
