Aiyedatiwa approves N73,000 minimum wage for Ondo workers

Governor of Ondo State, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has approved the payment of N73, 000 minimum wage for workers in the state.

While stressing his administration’s commitment to the welfare of the people of the state, the governor stated that despite the fact that the federal government approved N70,000 as the new minimum wage, the state will go a step further by paying N73,000 to its workers.

The governor announced the implementation of the wage during the flag-off of the Ondo central senatorial district leg of the gubernatorial campaign of the All Progressives Congress (APC) in Ondo City on Saturday ahead of the November 16 governorship election in the state.

According to Aiyedatiwa, who reeled out his manifestos to the large crowd of supporters during the campaign, they should convert their backing into votes for the APC to ensure the continuity of developmental initiatives across the state.

He said: “On November 16, I urge everyone gathered here and those who are not present to convert your support into votes for the APC to ensure the continuation of our significant progress in the state.

“Based on reports and my personal observations, I am confident that you all want this administration to continue beyond 2024. I see the love and appreciation from you, and I do not take it for granted. The best way to demonstrate this love is to vote for continuity, which will bring even more dividends of democracy.”

The governor stressed the achievements of his administration over the past 10 months, stating, “During my time in office, we have initiated several important projects, including those started by the late governor.

“In agriculture, we’ve taken significant strides, boosting food production across the state. We’ve also approved over a billion naira for land clearing and launched various rural road construction projects to facilitate our farmers’ activities and improve productivity in rural areas.”

The governor, who reaffirmed his dedication to enhancing security, the health sector, education, and youth empowerment, noted that his administration’s efforts have made doctors more willing to stay in the state “instead of leaving for opportunities elsewhere, a trend known as the “Japa” syndrome,” disclosing that his administration has increased doctors’ salaries and allowances.

On his part, the State APC Chairman, Ade Adetimehin, who urged the people to vote for the party at the oncoming polls, emphasised Aiyedatiwa’s commitment to infrastructural development across the state and reminded party members of the importance of safeguarding their voter cards, which he said are essential for ensuring the party’s continued leadership.

Abiola Makinde, the House of Representatives member for Ondo East/West federal constituency, who is the campaign’s Director-General, praised Aiyedatiwa as a proven and reliable leader who emerged through a transparent primary process.

He encouraged supporters to return to their local communities and mobilise voters for the governor, stressing the need for a strong turnout in the coming election.

The Commissioner for Women Affairs, Mrs. Lola Fagbemi, highlighted Aiyedatiwa’s significant accomplishments, including timely salary payments, road construction and rehabilitation, and funding for WAEC fees for public schools.

Former APC governorship aspirant, Olusola Oke, called on party members to return to their respective units to secure votes for Aiyedatiwa, adding that grassroots mobilisation is crucial for the party’s success and urging every member to be fully committed to achieving victory on November 16.

Kolade Akinjo, a former House of Representatives member for Ilaje Ese-Odo Federal Constituency and former PDP gubernatorial aspirant, hinged his decision to join APC on Governor Aiyedatiwa’s leadership style and development strides.