The governor of Oyo State, Seyi Makinde has assured workers in the state that he will pay the new N70,000 minimum wage approved by the Federal Government.

Speaking while addressing members of the Nigeria Union of Teachers on the celebration of this year’s Teacher’s Day, Makinde said his administration is willing to pay the new minimum wage.

The governor said negotiations on the new minimum wage for the state workers will begin by next week.

Makinde said, “We have extended the wage award by three months, and if we are able to conclude the negotiation in between this period, we will drop the wage award payment and get into the minimum wage payment.”

The governor further acknowledged the importance of teachers in nation-building.

He also assured teachers that his government would be totally committed to their welfare in the state.