New Minimum Wage: Governor Udom states stand on N30,000 demand

Governor Udom Emmanuel of Akwa Ibom on Monday assured that the state government would pay N30,000 minimum wage proposed by Labour Unions when approved by the Federal Government.

Emmanuel made the promise during a consultation with labour leaders in the state, in Uyo, NAN reports.

He said that paying the N30, 000 minimum wage in the state was not a problem and would not be an issue to the government.

“Minimum wage has never been an issue; it is just that it has been a matter of legislation

“We are waiting for directives from the Federal Government; once the directive is given, we will pay in our state.

“In the face of circumstances and what we face in this country, I have done my best to make sure that workers do not suffer.

“I pay salaries in circumstances that I do not receive allocation. You did not elect me to make excuses but to find solution to problems,” Emmanuel said.

He stated that labour was the bedrock of development in any nation and commended the workers for their support to his administration, adding that he had fulfilled his promises to the unions.

According to the governor, even when allocation from the Federal Government is pending, I source for money to make sure salaries are paid.

“Labour is the key to development. You cannot relegate labour to the background.

“I have demonstrated capacity yesterday and can look into the future. I am here today because you people have strengthened me to be here and made it possible for me to be here, and we can talk and negotiate.

“I thank labour for the fantastic relationship between the labour and us,” he added.