Ekiti State workers erupted in joy on Monday as Governor Biodun Oyebanji paid the newly approved minimum wage in their December salaries.
The workers, overwhelmed with excitement, stormed the Governor’s office in Ado-Ekiti.
They sang, danced, and expressed their gratitude for the long-awaited wage increase.
Governor Oyebanji, while addressing the jubilant workers, directed their appreciation to President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
He said the reforms initiated by the President enabled states to afford the new wage.
“Honestly, I don’t think you should thank me,” Governor Oyebanji said.
“Thank God, and after God, the only person you should thank is President Bola Ahmed Tinubu.
“What you are seeing today are the outcomes of the reforms he embarked on.”
The Governor explained that without Tinubu’s reforms, many states would have struggled to meet the new wage obligations.
He praised the President’s boldness in implementing reforms, despite initial opposition.
“When he embarked on the reforms, most people didn’t believe in him.
“But because he is a leader with a vision for the future, he has been able to achieve this,” Oyebanji said.
Hundreds of civil servants cheered as the Governor spoke, carrying placards of gratitude.
Many had already received bank alerts reflecting the new wage in their December salaries.
The workers were led to the Governor’s office by senior officials, including some Permanent Secretaries.
Governor Oyebanji assured the workers that the current wage could increase if state resources improved.
“N70,000 is just the minimum,” he said.
“If our situation improves, we can go beyond it.
“By the time these reforms fully bear fruit, there will be a significant increase in what comes to the states.
“At that point, we can come back to you and say, yes, we can afford to add more.”
The Governor also urged workers to remain patient and supportive of government policies.
“My plea to you is to support the President,” Oyebanji said.
“Educate others on the usefulness of these reforms to our survival as a nation.”
The workers applauded the Governor’s commitment to their welfare.
The Permanent Secretaries thanked Oyebanji for ensuring their inclusion in the new wage structure.
They said this was the first time in years that senior officials had benefited from such a policy.
“The Governor has kept his promise to all categories of workers,” one of the Permanent Secretaries said.
“This is a testament to his commitment to fairness and inclusion.”
It was a carnival-like atmosphere at the Governor’s office as workers shared their excitement.
“This is a dream come true,” said Mrs. Funmilayo, a civil servant.
“We had hoped for this day, and it has finally come. We are grateful to the Governor and President Tinubu.”
Governor Oyebanji was joined by top government officials during the event.
They included Deputy Governor Chief (Mrs) Monisade Afuye, Secretary to the State Government Dr Habibat Adubiaro, and several commissioners.
The Governor had earlier announced that the new minimum wage would take effect from December 1.
True to his word, Ekiti workers began receiving their December salaries on Tuesday with the new pay structure.
This move has brought relief to many workers amid rising costs of living.
Analysts say the payment of the new wage reflects the impact of President Tinubu’s economic reforms.
These reforms have increased the revenue allocations to states, enabling them to meet financial obligations.
Observers also note that Ekiti State’s timely payment sets a positive example for other states.
Governor Oyebanji’s promise of further wage increases has sparked hope among workers in the state.
“We trust him,” said Mr. Olumide, another civil servant.
“The Governor has shown that he cares about us. We are ready to support him and the President.”
The celebration in Ado-Ekiti is seen as a sign of renewed confidence in the state government.
It also underscores the importance of leadership and economic policies in improving workers’ welfare.
For now, Ekiti workers say they are grateful and hopeful for an even better future.
“Thank you, Governor Oyebanji, and thank you, President Tinubu,” shouted a group of workers as they dispersed from the Governor’s office.
The Governor’s parting words to the workers were clear:
“Be steadfast, be patient, and remain hopeful.
“Together, we will continue to build a better Ekiti State.”
