As Nigeria’s economic situation continues to affect daily living, state governments are beginning to take meaningful steps to improve the welfare of their workers. One of the most commendable developments in recent times is from Ekiti State, where the state government has approved a ₦70,000 minimum wage for its civil servants in 2025. This move comes as a huge relief for many public workers who have struggled with the increasing cost of living.
In this post, we will explore the full details surrounding this wage increase, including the implementation date, the role of labour unions, the impact on the economy, reactions from workers, and what this means for the future of the Ekiti State workforce.
Background: A Long-Awaited Change
Before this update, Ekiti State workers were receiving the national minimum wage of ₦30,000, which had become grossly inadequate due to rising inflation, removal of fuel subsidy, and the general economic hardship in the country. Calls for an upward review had been growing louder from labour unions and civil servants, especially as some states like Bayelsa and Niger moved to higher wage structures.
After months of discussions and negotiations between the Ekiti State Government and leaders of the organised labour unions (NLC and TUC), the government finally agreed to a significant raise. On November 2024, the state government, under the leadership of Governor Biodun Oyebanji, signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with labour unions, approving ₦70,000 as the new minimum wage.
The wage increase became effective on December 1, 2024, with workers beginning to receive the new salary structure from that month onward.
Who Is Covered by the New Wage?
One of the major victories for the labour unions was that the wage increment applied across board. That is, all categories of civil servants in Ekiti State, including junior and senior staff, are to benefit from the new wage. Pensioners also had reasons to smile, as the government included them in some of the welfare upgrades.
This inclusion showed that the government was not only responding to the needs of active workers but also acknowledging the service and contribution of retired personnel.
How It Was Agreed: The Role of Labour Unions
Labour unions in Ekiti State played a central role in pushing for this change. For many months, they had been holding consultations, meetings, and negotiations with government officials. They insisted that the previous wage could no longer support the average worker’s needs, especially as transport fares, food prices, and utility bills had tripled since early 2023.
Eventually, their efforts paid off when Governor Oyebanji’s administration agreed to the new rate and entered into an MoU with the unions. The agreement was signed by the Ekiti State Head of Service, Dr. Folakemi Olomojobi, on behalf of the state government, while leaders of the NLC and TUC signed on behalf of the workers.
The document also included plans to resolve other lingering issues around promotion arrears, leave bonuses, and pensions.
Reactions from Civil Servants and the General Public
The news of the ₦70,000 minimum wage brought massive celebration among civil servants in Ekiti State. Many workers took to the streets in joy, praising the government for being responsive and considerate. According to them, the raise was not just a salary increment, but a sign that the government values their efforts and sacrifices.
Even residents who are not government workers commended the decision, saying that it will have a ripple effect on the economy. They expect that as workers earn more, they will spend more, and this will help boost local businesses and economic activities in the state.
Economic Impact of the ₦70,000 Minimum Wage
The decision to raise the minimum wage is not just a political one; it also has deep economic implications. Below are some of the expected effects:
1. Improved Living Conditions
Civil servants can now afford better food, education, healthcare, and housing. This improves the overall standard of living, reduces poverty levels, and may even reduce petty crimes caused by economic frustration.
2. Boost in Local Economy
More money in workers’ hands means more spending. Traders, transporters, artisans, and service providers are likely to see more patronage, which will, in turn, encourage more production and services.
3. Inflation and Market Reaction
While higher wages are good, they can sometimes lead to price increases if businesses see it as an excuse to charge more. This could affect people not on government payroll, such as small business owners or unemployed individuals.
4. Budget Adjustments
The Ekiti State Government will have to spend more money on salaries each month. This means they must either increase internally generated revenue (IGR), cut wasteful spending, or get creative with financial planning to sustain the new wage without defaulting in the future.
Government’s Assurance on Sustainability
Governor Oyebanji has assured the people that the ₦70,000 minimum wage will be paid regularly and without delays. According to him, the government has already restructured its finances and prioritized workers’ welfare.
He also said that the state will invest more in agriculture, education, and infrastructure to improve the economy and generate more income. This shows that the government is not only interested in paying more salaries but also in making sure that it can afford to do so long-term.
Summary Table: Ekiti State Minimum Wage 2025
| Feature | Details |
|---|---|
| New Minimum Wage | ₦70,000 |
| Effective Date | December 1, 2024 |
| Announced By | Governor Biodun Oyebanji |
| MoU Signed By | Dr. Folakemi Olomojobi (Head of Service) |
| Labour Unions Involved | NLC and TUC |
| Covered Workers | All civil servants and pensioners |
| Previous Minimum Wage | ₦30,000 |
| Expected Benefits | Better standard of living, economic growth |
| Challenges | Possible inflation, budget pressure |
Conclusion: A Progressive Step Forward
The introduction of a ₦70,000 minimum wage for Ekiti State civil servants in 2025 is a clear sign that the state government values its workforce and is serious about workers’ welfare. It also places Ekiti among the most progressive states in Nigeria in terms of wage reform.
This development is not only a reward for the commitment of the state's civil servants but also an inspiration to other states still paying below-average salaries. The Ekiti State Government now has a greater responsibility to sustain this new structure, manage its finances wisely, and continue listening to the voices of its people.
For the workers, the wage increase is a big relief, but it should also come with renewed dedication and improved productivity in the civil service. If well managed, this policy could open the door for even more economic progress in the state.
