Anambra Workers Celebrate Soludo’s N82,000 Minimum Wage and Pension Reforms
Workers in Anambra State have lauded Governor Chukwuma Soludo for prioritizing their welfare through groundbreaking labor reforms, including a N82,000 minimum wage—the highest in Nigeria’s South-East region. The commendation came during the 2025 May Day celebration at Awka’s Alex Ekwueme Square, themed “Reclaiming Civic Space Amidst Economic Hardship.”
Key Achievements Highlighted by Labour Unions
1. N82,000 Minimum Wage Implementation: Surpassing the national benchmark of N70,000, Anambra’s wage increase was seamlessly rolled out without industrial disputes.
2. Pensioner Support: A N10,000 non-taxable monthly award for pensioners and the clearance of 7-year backlog of gratuities and pension arrears inherited from past administrations.
3. Infrastructure Development: Major projects like the Ekwulobia Flyover, Awka Fun City, and the completion of the Anambra Government House were praised as symbols of Soludo’s economic vision.
Humphrey Nwafor, Anambra NLC Chairman, hailed Soludo’s leadership, calling it a “testament to exemplary governance.” He emphasized the governor’s fiscal prudence, noting the state’s progress without borrowing.
Ongoing Worker Welfare Demands
While celebrating these milestones, the unions urged further action:
- Finalizing the Contributory Pension Scheme rollout.
- Addressing unpaid allowances for non-teaching staff in ASUBEB.
- Building a dedicated Labour Houseand appointing a Special Adviser on Labour.
- Expanding low-cost housing and mass recruitment to reduce unemployment.
- Resolving pending gratuities for Anambra Broadcasting Service retirees (outstanding since 2017).
Soludo’s Commitment to Workers
Governor Soludo reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to worker welfare, stating, “Enhancing the welfare of our workforce is not just policy—it’s a moral obligation.” He highlighted:
- Pension Arrears Cleared: Payments completed for 2018–2020, with 2021 arrears underway.
- Transparency and Accountability: Prioritizing resource efficiency to improve working conditions.
May Day Recognition
Soludo received the “Worker’s Beacon of Hope” award for his empathy and reforms. The event underscored collaboration between the state and labor unions to mitigate economic challenges while advancing civic development.
Why This Matters
Anambra’s reforms set a precedent for Nigerian states, proving that strategic governance can uplift workers despite national economic headwinds. By addressing both wages and legacy pension debts, Soludo’s administration aims to restore trust and motivate public-sector productivity.
What steps should other states take to replicate Anambra’s success? Share your thoughts below!
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