Ajaero commended Imo Governor Hope Uzodinma for increasing the minimum wage, saying it was a commendable move worth emulating by other governors. He noted that during wage negotiations with the Federal Government, the argument was that the government did not want to disrupt the wage system.
However, Ajaero pointed out that if states like Imo can afford to pay ₦100,000 and above, other states should be encouraged to do the same. He emphasized that the minimum wage is the least that states can pay, and they can do better.
Ajaero also expressed concern over issues with the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF) and called for immediate action. He alleged that the state had diverted 40% of workers' contributions to the NSITF and was seeking to unilaterally amend the NSITF Act to control the fund.
Additionally, Stephen Okoro, President of the National Union of Civil Engineering Construction, Furniture and Wood Workers, complained about unfair labor practices by employers of construction workers. He emphasized the importance of decent work conditions and the abolition of casualization in the industry.
Okoro noted that the union had zero tolerance for unfair labor practices and would continue to negotiate for better working conditions and occupational health hazards.
