Uzodinma To Pay Workers N104k in Imo State
Charity Onah
Owerri, Nigeria — When Imo State Governor, Senator Hope Uzodimma, announced on Tuesday that civil servants in the state would now take home a minimum wage of ₦104,000, there was a gasp of relief across the crowd gathered at the Government House in Owerri. For many families who have struggled to keep up with rising food, rent, and school fees, the news could not have come at a better time.
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At more than 25 percent higher than the new national minimum wage of ₦75,000, Uzodimma’s declaration positions Imo as one of the most worker-friendly states in the country. “This is not just a figure on paper; it is dignity restored,” said a teacher who had attended the meeting, her eyes brimming with tears.
Doctors and Lecturers Breathe Easier
The governor also announced new wage structures for professionals whose responsibilities have become more demanding in a fragile economy. Medical doctors in the state’s civil service will now earn ₦533,000 monthly, while lecturers at state-owned tertiary institutions will start with ₦222,000.
For Dr. Ifeanyi, a young medical officer at the Imo Specialist Hospital, the gesture is life-changing: “We have been losing colleagues to better offers abroad. This gives us a reason to stay and serve our people,” he told OurNigeria after the announcement.
Pensioners Not Left Behind
In a move that drew the loudest applause of the day, Uzodimma pledged ₦16 billion to clear gratuity arrears for pensioners. For elderly retirees who have endured years of broken promises, this represents not just money, but recognition.
Why Now?
According to Governor Uzodimma, the wage review was made possible by a rise in the state’s internally generated revenue and increased federal allocations. He framed the decision as both an economic stimulus and a moral obligation.
“When workers are paid well, productivity rises, families are happier, and the local economy grows,” the governor said. “This is our way of investing in Imo people.”
A Ripple Effect on the Economy
The new wage structure is expected to reinvigorate the local economy, as more disposable income means more money circulating through markets, transport systems, and small businesses. Traders in Douglas Road, Owerri, expressed optimism that sales would rebound. “If salaries go up, people will buy more garri, rice, and yam. It means we too can survive,” said Ngozi, a foodstuff seller.
Challenges Ahead
While the announcement has been widely welcomed, analysts warn that sustaining the wage structure will require prudent management. Inflation, rising costs of governance, and dependency on federal allocations could strain state finances in the long run.
Still, for now, many Imo families see hope. Prince Anayo, an Imo citizen based in Abuja summed it up:
“For years, civil servants have worked without knowing if tomorrow would be better. Today, they can go home and tell their children their father’s job is worth something again. I pray it its reality and not politics”
A Turning Point?
Governor Uzodimma’s wage increase may yet become a turning point for Imo State’s workers. Beyond the figures, it represents dignity, recognition, and a chance to rebuild trust between government and the governed. For the nurse in Orlu, the lecturer in Okigwe, and the retired teacher in Owerri, the message is the same: Imo State is finally listening.
Uzodinma To Pay Workers N104k in Imo State