In recent times, Nigeria’s economic condition has made state governments rethink the standard of living of their workers. Among the states that took bold steps in 2024 going into 2025 is Bayelsa State, located in the Niger Delta region. The government, led by Governor Douye Diri, approved a new minimum wage of ₦80,000 for civil servants in the state. This move was widely celebrated by civil servants, labour unions, and pensioners, especially considering the high cost of living in Nigeria.
In this post, we’ll explain the full details surrounding the new wage, why it was introduced, the reaction of labour unions, how it affects workers in both state and local government service, and the general impact on the economy of Bayelsa State.
Background of the New Minimum Wage in Bayelsa State
The approval of the ₦80,000 minimum wage came after months of pressure from labour unions and the general outcry of workers across Nigeria due to inflation and rising costs of basic needs like food, rent, fuel, and transport.
In October 2024, Governor Douye Diri made the official announcement, stating that Bayelsa workers will begin to receive ₦80,000 as minimum wage from November 1, 2024. According to him, the state government could not sit back and watch its workers suffer under harsh economic conditions.
Aside from the wage increase, the governor also announced a raise in the monthly pensions of retired workers. He also approved ₦7 billion to begin clearing outstanding gratuities for pensioners. This move proved the administration’s seriousness about improving workers’ welfare in the state.
Was the New Wage Only for State Workers?
At first, the ₦80,000 minimum wage applied only to civil servants working under the Bayelsa State Government. Workers under local government councils were not included in the first announcement.
However, this decision did not go down well with the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC), who both insisted that local government staff should also benefit from the new wage. After a series of meetings and negotiations, especially with the involvement of the Deputy Governor, Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo (who acted as governor at the time), the government finally agreed.
By December 2024, the Bayelsa State Government extended the new ₦80,000 minimum wage to local government workers across all eight LGAs in the state. The government further assured the unions that any difference in salary that was not paid earlier would be adjusted in future salary payments.
How Does Bayelsa’s Wage Compare to Other States?
Bayelsa is not the only Nigerian state that reviewed its wage structure due to the nationwide call for better pay. In fact, Niger State and Jigawa State also made significant announcements around the same time.
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Niger State also increased its minimum wage to ₦80,000, same as Bayelsa.
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Jigawa State approved a new minimum wage of ₦70,000.
These figures show that there is now a trend of wage review across various states in Nigeria, especially as economic hardship continues to grow. However, Bayelsa’s ₦80,000 wage places it among the highest-paying states for civil servants in the country.
Economic Impacts of the ₦80,000 Minimum Wage
While the increase is widely celebrated, it is also important to understand how this wage review affects different aspects of the state’s economy and government spending.
1. Higher Standard of Living
The obvious benefit is that many civil servants and pensioners will now be able to take care of their basic needs. From feeding to healthcare and housing, ₦80,000 gives them a better shot at survival in today’s economy compared to the old wage.
2. Boost in Local Economy
When workers earn more money, they are likely to spend more. Local businesses like food vendors, market women, transport operators, tailors, and other service providers are expected to benefit from the increased spending power of state workers.
3. Possible Inflationary Pressures
On the flip side, higher wages can lead to a rise in prices if supply does not match demand. For instance, more money chasing the same quantity of goods can lead to inflation, which might affect those not earning salaries, such as the unemployed or self-employed.
4. Government Budget and Revenue Management
Increasing the minimum wage means the state government must now spend more on salaries every month. This could put pressure on the budget, especially if oil revenue or federal allocation drops. The state may need to improve its Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) to meet up with salary payments without cutting other services like education and healthcare.
Reactions from Labour Unions and Workers
Labour unions like the NLC and TUC have praised Governor Douye Diri and his administration for responding to the demands of the people. The unions also thanked the government for including local government staff and retirees in the new payment structure.
According to the state chairman of the NLC, the increase was long overdue, and it is a positive sign that the government is listening to the voice of the people. He also urged the state to ensure that the wage is paid regularly without delays or deductions.
Some workers who spoke to local media outlets expressed their happiness and relief, saying the new wage will help them survive the economic heat that has made many Nigerians struggle to feed themselves and their families.
Key Takeaways and Summary
Here’s a summary of the major points about the minimum wage for civil servants in Bayelsa State as of 2025:
| Aspect | Details |
|---|---|
| New Minimum Wage | ₦80,000 |
| Effective Date | November 1, 2024 |
| Applies To | State and Local Government Civil Servants |
| Additional Benefit | Increased pensions, ₦7 billion for gratuities |
| Governor in Charge | Douye Diri |
| Labour Union Involvement | NLC and TUC pushed for inclusion of LG workers |
| Comparison with Other States | Niger: ₦80,000, Jigawa: ₦70,000 |
| Economic Impact | Boost in spending, possible inflation, budget pressure |
| Union Reaction | Positive, but calls for regular payments |
Conclusion
Bayelsa State’s move to increase the minimum wage to ₦80,000 for both state and local government civil servants is a commendable step that shows commitment to the welfare of its workforce. In a time when many Nigerians are battling with economic hardship, such actions serve as relief and encouragement.
Although there are financial implications for the government, it is now up to the leadership of the state to put in place smart economic strategies that can support the new wage structure. This includes improving internal revenue generation, cutting wastage, and attracting investment to the state.
Overall, the 2025 minimum wage update in Bayelsa State is a win for the workers, and it sets a strong example for other states across Nigeria to follow.
