By Rabiu Sanusi
Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf of Kano State has approved a new minimum wage of N71,000 for state civil servants, effective November 2024.
The decision reflects the governor’s commitment to social justice, economic growth, and enhanced living standards for state workers and citizens.
The governor made this announcement while receiving the Public Service Negotiation Committee Report, headed by the state Head of Civil Service, at his office.
He emphasized that Kano State has one of the largest workforces in Nigeria, considering its population and specific local needs.
Despite financial constraints, including low Internally Generated Revenue (IGR), the governor opted to implement the new national minimum wage. He noted that the state’s IGR stands at N2 billion, significantly lower than other states like Lagos (N54.3 billion), Rivers (N14.5 billion), Ogun (N10.1 billion), and Delta (N7.1 billion).
The implementation of the minimum wage will increase the state’s monthly salary obligations by N6 billion and an additional N7 billion for the 44 local government councils.
Governor Abba Kabir acknowledged the financial challenge but prioritized the welfare of civil servants.
The governor’s decision demonstrates his administration’s commitment to social justice and economic growth.
He urged civil servants to enhance service delivery, seek innovative solutions, and foster collaboration to ensure transparency and accountability.
Governor Abba Yusuf also addressed the state’s civil service hiring initiative, undertaken by the previous administration, which employed 13,000 individuals without due diligence.
”Despite this, his administration retained over 12,000 of them, recognizing the importance of human resources in serving the citizens.
The Head of Civil Service, Alhaji Abdullahi Musa, presented the report and assured that the committee ensured appropriate implementation of the new wage without difficulties. Comrade Kabiru Inuwa, representing civil servants, thanked the governor for approving the minimum wage despite the state’s financial constraints.
Governor Yusuf’s approval of the N71,000 minimum wage underscores his dedication to improving the lives of Kano State civil servants and promoting economic growth.
”This development is expected to have a positive impact on the state’s workforce and overall development.
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