Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodimma, has announced a new minimum wage of N40,000 for workers in the state to ease the pains caused by the removal of fuel subsidy.

Uzodimma also announced N5 billion revolving loan for farmers, as well as free transportation and medical care.

The governor made the announcement during a meeting with Imo stakeholders in Owerri, the Imo State capital, on Saturday, July 15, 2023.

He said the free transportation, feeding, and medical care were for civil servants, adding that other palliatives include the establishment of marketing and commodity boards, mass housing, and recruitment of more teachers.

Governor Uzodimma stated that the Imo State Government has also a initiated scholarship scheme for Imo students, while retirees will be paid promptly.

Uzodimma said: “It is clear to me that our people are suffering, particularly the low-income earners and those in paid employment.

“I have therefore convened this special meeting with the leadership of Organised Labour, traders, farmers, and artisans, to announce the comprehensive palliative measures we are putting in place, which I am sure will ease these sufferings.”

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He further expressed confidence that the measures would stimulate the economy, create additional jobs, and enhance workers’ wages.

The governor added: “Let me say, however, that although the impact of the fuel subsidy removal policy appears harsh in the short-run, it will, in the long run, bring positive results.

“There shall be an immediate upward review of the salaries and wages of workers in the state.

“The minimum wage is hereby raised to N40,000 with discretionary consequential adjustments.

“At least your salaries would be able not only to take you home but to also provide your basic necessities to enable you to make ends meet.”

Uzodimma, however, directed the Imo State Head of Service to work out the modalities for daily free meals for civil servants as well as free medical treatment in designated hospitals.

For farmers, he said the N5 billion revolving loan will be released immediately to stimulate production in the value chain.

“Farmers will also be encouraged to form cooperatives to facilitate organised farming,” he stated.

On teachers recruitment, Governor Uzodimma said it would be for all public schools.

Uzodimma added: “There will be recruitment exercises for new teachers from primary to secondary and tertiary levels to boost employment and income generation, particularly among our graduates.

“The government has approved bursaries for students in tertiary institutions.”

He said the government would train 100,000 youths annually in digital skills through the Ministry of Digital Economy and E-Government.

Uzodimma said: “So far, 5,000 of them have been successfully trained and equipped with relevant kits and tools.

“Another batch of 15,000 are currently in training and they will graduate in a few weeks.”

He assured retirees that the state government would source funds to commence the payment of their gratuities from 2008/2009.

The Star