Oyo State Governor Seyi Makinde has approved the renewal of the wage award for civil servants for another three months and the continuation of the transport subsidy in the state.
Makinde made the announcement on Friday upon resuming official duties at the Governor’s Office, Agodi, Ibadan, after his annual leave. Acting Governor Abdulraheem Bayo Lawal, top government officials, labour leaders and civil servants welcomed him back to office.
The governor stated that the measures aim to cushion the effects of the recent increase in pump price and ease the economic hardship faced by residents.
“I want to assure you today that the wage award will be renewed for another three months. We will also continue with the transport subsidy. I want to thank our workers for their efforts, dedication and support,” Makinde said.
He noted that his administration remains aware of the economic challenges confronting residents due to certain Federal Government policies. He called for a meeting between labour leaders and the state government, adding that the administration would continue to take necessary steps to address the situation.
Makinde also explained that the state’s wage bill had risen sharply from N4.5 billion in 2019 to N18 billion monthly, while the minimum wage had increased from N18,000 in 2019 to N80,000.