Ebonyi State Governor, Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru, has pledged to give all workers in the state civil service One Hundred and Fifty Thousand Naira each as a 2024 Christmas bonus.
In a statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Dr. Monday Uzor, the governor made this announcement at a state banquet held in honor of the visiting British Deputy High Commissioner to Nigeria, Gill Lever, at the Government House, Abakaliki.
The governor explained that the gesture is a token of appreciation for the workers’ dedication to duty and their understanding during the recent strike action.
“Our workers have shown remarkable commitment and respect for us as a government. During the strike action, they heeded our appeal because they understood the situation, and we are most grateful. We remain ready to always engage in dialogue to improve their welfare,” he stated.
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Governor Nwifuru directed that every worker should receive the bonus before the close of work on Tuesday next week.
Earlier, the governor had received the British Deputy High Commissioner in his office at Ochoudo Centenary City, Abakaliki, where he sought the British Government’s support in areas such as water, health, power, education, and agriculture.
“We are committed to industrializing the state, with progress evident in the Ebonyi Pipe Production Company, Ebonyi State Fertilizers and Chemicals Company, Industrial Clusters, and Ebonyi State Hatchery, Nkaliki. We cultivate rice in large quantities and seek your collaboration to enhance production for export.”
He further highlighted progress in water and sanitation, saying, “We have made significant strides in increasing access to quality water supply in rural and urban areas. The Oferekpe Water Scheme has been revived, with the capacity to produce 100 million cubic liters of water daily.”
Governor Nwifuru also commended the UK Foreign Office and other development partners for their active support and commitment to Nigeria’s development.
In response, the Deputy High Commissioner expressed satisfaction with the progress in the state and pledged support, citing the long-standing ties between the UK and Nigeria.