The Akwa Ibom State government has announced plans to grant an additional one-month salary to its workers this December.
Governor Umo Eno shared this news during a Sunday service at Eternity Mission International Church, urging those who frequently call for disruptions in the relationship between the state government and organized labor to reconsider their stance.
He reaffirmed that the payment of the N80,000 minimum wage to all public servants would begin shortly after an ongoing verification exercise is completed.
These announcements were contained in a statement signed by Chief Secretary to the Governor, Mr. Ekerete Udoh, and released to the press in Uyo yesterday.
Governor Eno stated, “I am aware that quite a number of our Civil Servants have relocated within Nigeria while others have gone abroad. We have to be sure that those receiving payments are real Civil Servants.
“My watchword since assuming office has been transparency and honesty in service deliverables and we have to ensure that we carry this through this verification exercise, which would soon be completed.
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“Since we came in, we have paid critical attention to the needs and the welfare of civil servants in this State. To date, we have paid N35billion in gratuities to retired state, local government workers and primary school teachers in the State “
The governor also highlighted his administration’s focus on civil servants’ welfare, noting that the state has disbursed N35 billion in gratuities to retired state and local government employees, as well as primary school teachers.
Earlier in the year, during Public Service Week, he announced a N1.1 billion bonus for all public servants, which was paid promptly.
The governor’s statement also pointed out that, aside from regular payment of salaries, pensions, and gratuities, Eno provided a three-month wage award to mitigate the high cost of living due to fuel subsidy removal.
In addition, Governor Eno has prioritized affordable housing for workers. Last September, 150 homes at the Grace Estate were awarded to civil servants from grade levels 1-8, free of charge, through a raffle draw.
The statement further highlighted his approval for all service exams in preparation for 2024 promotions, the release of 2023 promotions, and an increase in pensions for workers who retired before 2012.
Additionally, the governor approved the release of a pending 7.5 percent contributory pension for contributors and appointed 22 new permanent secretaries to further enhance service delivery.
NIGERIAN TRIBUNE
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