By Dada Ahmed in Lokoja
Lokoja international market.
Photo credit: X.
Traders in Lokoja, Kogi State, North-Central Nigeria, have praised Governor Alhaji Ahmed Usman Ododo for his prompt implementation of the new national minimum wage for state workers.
In interviews with The Reporters at the Lokoja International Market on Friday, traders shared their appreciation for the positive impact the new wage has had on their businesses.
Hajia Salamatu Mohammed, a yam seller, noted that her sales have noticeably increased since the state began paying the new minimum wage.
“Before this, not many civil servants could afford to buy yams from me as they complained of limited funds. But now, with the new wage in place, many are coming forward to buy food items, and my sales have risen,” she said.
Another trader, Mrs. Janet Alozie, who sells various food items like garri and soup ingredients, echoed Salamatu’s sentiments. She mentioned that her daily profit has grown to over N10,000, especially on market days. “Honestly, my business is now experiencing a boom. Many of my customers, especially civil servants, have told me that their increased salary allows them to buy more food items. Some have even paid off old debts and bought additional goods,” she added.
Alozie further commended Governor Ododo, not only for implementing the wage increase but also for adding an additional N2,500. “This shows how much he cares about the well-being of civil servants, especially during these tough economic times,” she told our correspondent.
Civil servants shopping at the market expressed similar relief, saying that the wage increase has helped them buy more essentials despite rising costs. “Although prices are still high, at least we now have enough money to cover essentials and meet other financial obligations,” said Mrs. Ronke Matthew.
She also urged the governor to establish price control boards across local government areas to prevent traders and businesses from arbitrarily raising the prices of food and services.
A market survey by The Reporters confirmed that prices remain high. However, economist Mr. Salami Yusuf attributed this to an increase in demand for food, which exceeds supply. He explained that when demand outpaces supply, prices go up, adding that while the Ododo administration has been supportive of civil servants, it should intensify agricultural efforts to boost food supply.
“The Ododo administration must be commended for its agricultural policies so far. However, it should include mechanized farming and ensure that farmers have easy access to subsidized fertilizer and agro-allied supplies. If food production rises, more food will be available, and prices will naturally stabilize,” Mr. Yusuf said.
