The implementation of the new minimum wage for civil servants has officially started in Bayelsa State, accompanied by the clearance of unpaid salary arrears. This development underscores the government’s dedication to boosting the welfare and economic security of its workforce.
This announcement was made by Timpre Seipulo, the Technical Adviser to the Governor on Accounts, Revenue, and Finance, during the Transparency Briefing held on Friday in Yenagoa. The briefing covered financial activities and expenditures for the months of March and April, providing the public with detailed insights into the state’s fiscal management and priorities.
Bayelsa Governor Douye Diri had publicly affirmed the government’s resolve to implement a new minimum wage of N80,000 for civil servants. In addition to this, the administration promised salary increments of 25 percent and 35 percent for different cadres of workers.
Seipulo’s recent declaration that payments have already begun came less than a month after the governor’s announcement, underscoring the government’s prompt action to meet these promises.
The Technical Adviser further disclosed that as of the end of April, Bayelsa State maintained a healthy treasury balance exceeding N174 billion. This substantial reserve demonstrates the state government’s prudent financial stewardship and its capacity to meet both ongoing and future obligations.
Seipulo provided a detailed breakdown of the state’s payroll and related expenditures. Salaries paid to civil servants in March amounted to N6.1 billion, increasing to N6.5 billion in April.
Included in April’s payments was N266 million specifically allocated to clear salary arrears related to the new minimum wage adjustments dating back to the previous year.
Additionally, the government disbursed N363 million for gratuities and N193 million to settle pension arrears. Political appointees’ salaries for April were also paid, totaling N1.7 billion.
Beyond payroll expenses, the briefing highlighted major investments in infrastructure and development projects across the state.
The government allocated approximately N16 billion toward the construction and rehabilitation of the Yenagoa Phase 2 and Phase 3 roads—critical projects aimed at improving transportation networks and boosting economic activity within the state capital.
Furthermore, N3 billion was spent on developing the State Independent Power Plant, a vital initiative to enhance electricity generation and distribution.
Other significant expenditures included over N10 billion spent on clearing and sand-filling works along the Ekeremor-Toru-Ndoro-Agge Road, improving connectivity for rural communities. The government also invested N4 billion in upgrading the Nembe-Brass Road, facilitating easier movement and trade within the coastal areas.
Additional projects funded by the state government include the dualisation of the Sampou Road, aimed at reducing traffic congestion and improving road safety.
The government also undertook shore protection and reclamation works at Odi, the designated site for the new Olympic-size stadium, preparing the land for this major sports infrastructure development.
In a move to bolster security, the state procured security vans to enhance the capabilities of its law enforcement agencies.
The Bayelsa State Government’s financial activities in March and April reflect a well-balanced approach to addressing public sector remuneration, investing in critical infrastructure, and maintaining a strong fiscal position.
These efforts collectively highlight the administration’s dedication to fostering sustainable development and improving the quality of life for the people of Bayelsa.