Two days before the close of 2024, Governor Seyi Makinde fulfilled his promise to pay the much-anticipated 13th-month salary to Oyo State workers. The payment was confirmed when workers received alerts on the evening of Monday, December 30.
In a statement on Tuesday, Commissioner for Information and Orientation, Prince Dotun Oyelade, lauded the governor's commitment despite the state's substantial financial obligations.
Prince Oyelade revealed that the Oyo State government spends a staggering ₦77 billion annually on salaries and wages. However, with the newly approved ₦80,000 minimum wage, effective January 1, 2025, the annual wage bill will rise to ₦143 billion, marking an 86% increase.
“Oyo State now ranks among the top three in the federation for workers’ packages,” Oyelade stated, noting that the state also boasts the largest population of government workers in the South West.
This year's payment continues a tradition established by Governor Makinde since 2019, reflecting his unwavering support for civil servants. At the 2023 Christmas Carol Service held at the Government House in Ibadan, the governor reaffirmed his commitment to disburse the 13th-month salary ahead of the New Year.
The new minimum wage of ₦80,000, along with the 13th-month salary, further cements Oyo State’s position as a trailblazer in worker-friendly policies.
Workers across the state have expressed their gratitude, describing the 13th-month salary as a morale booster and a testament to Governor Makinde’s leadership and dedication to their welfare.
