THE IMPACT OF MINIMUM WAGE ON EMPLOYEES TURNOVER IN BENUE STATE PUBLIC SECTOR: A CASE STUDY OF OJU LOCAL GOVERNMENT COUNCIL

This study examined the impact of minimum wage on employee turnover in the Benue State public sector, with a focus on Oju Local Government Council. The study was motivated by the increasing rate of employee dissatisfaction, low morale, and turnover in the public sector despite the introduction of minimum wage policies in Nigeria. A descriptive survey research design was adopted for the study. The population consisted of staff of Oju Local Government Council, from which a sample size of 109 respondents was determined using the Taro Yamane formula. Data were collected through structured questionnaires, and 100 valid responses were analyzed using simple percentages and chi-square (χ²) statistical method. The findings revealed that minimum wage has a significant effect on employee turnover. The study also showed that a majority of employees are not satisfied with their current salary, and delays in salary payment negatively affect their performance and willingness to remain in the organization. Based on these findings, the study concluded that effective implementation of minimum wage policies plays a crucial role in reducing employee turnover and improving job satisfaction in the public sector. The study recommended that government should ensure timely payment of salaries, proper implementation of minimum wage policies, and provision of additional incentives to enhance employee retention and productivity.