Following the recent removal of fuel subsidy by the Federal Government, the surge in fuel prices has led to a significant increase in the cost of living, affecting the prices of goods and services across the board.
Understanding the hardship faced by its citizens, the Edo State Government empathizes with the people and stands in solidarity with them during these challenging times. The government assures the public that it will utilize all available means as a subnational government to mitigate the pain and alleviate the current difficulties.
As a proactive measure, the Edo State Government has taken the initiative to raise the minimum wage of workers in the state from the approved N30,000 to N40,000, making it the highest minimum wage in the country. The government pledges to sustain this amount and even consider further increases if the state receives additional allocations from the Federal Government due to the anticipated savings resulting from the fuel subsidy removal.
Recognizing the burden imposed by the policy, particularly in terms of transportation costs, the Edo State Government has decided to reduce the number of workdays for civil and public servants from five days a week to three. This reduction aims to ease the commuting expenses faced by workers. Furthermore, the government plans to enhance the EdoBEST@Home initiative, providing more virtual classes to minimize the commuting costs for teachers, parents, and students. The Edo State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB) will release more details regarding this initiative in the coming days.
To address the escalating energy costs borne by the people, the government will collaborate with electricity companies to improve power supply to households and businesses. Additionally, the provision of fiber optic connections will facilitate remote work opportunities, thereby reducing transportation expenses.
While the government intensifies its efforts to alleviate the impact of the fuel price increase during this challenging period, it urges everyone to remain calm and lawfully conduct their daily activities.