Oyo State Governor, Seyi Makinde, has approved a three-month extension of the wage award for state workers, assuring civil servants that the transportation subsidy introduced by his administration to cushion the effects of economic hardship will also continue.

Makinde announced the extension on Friday shortly after resuming official duties at the Governor’s Office, Agodi, Ibadan, following his annual leave.

Addressing civil and public servants who gathered to welcome him back to office, the governor said the decision was informed by the prevailing economic challenges confronting workers and residents of the state.

Makinde said his administration remained committed to workers’ welfare, particularly at a time when rising living costs and other economic pressures continue to affect household incomes.

The governor also assured workers that the transportation subsidy would remain in place as part of the government’s measures to ease the financial burden on residents and cushion the impact of the current economic situation.

Speaking further, Makinde highlighted his administration’s adherence to constitutional provisions, particularly the transfer of power to his deputy during his absence from the state.

He challenged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to adopt a similar approach whenever he is outside the country or otherwise unavailable to personally perform the functions of his office.

The latest extension means Oyo State workers will continue to benefit from the wage award for an additional three months, coming amid continued concerns over the rising cost of living and demands for improved workers’ welfare across the country.