By Brenda Chidinma Imo-Eze
The Ebonyi state government under the leadership of Rt. Hon.Francis Nwifuru has increased workers salaries in the State by 10,000 naira.
The governor made the pronouncement during the 2024 workers day celebration held at Pa Oruta Ngele Stadium in Abakaliki, the state capital.
Recall that in July 2023, barely one month in office, Governor Nwifuru added N10,000 to the salary of the state workers, noting that he will prioritize the welfare of the state workers.
However, Gov. Nwifuru in his address to mark the 2024 workers day celebration, emphasised that civil servants have remained partners in progress.
He said that his administration will continue to sustain and deepen the existing friendly working environment and industrial harmony, aimed at increasing productivity of workforce in particular and improving good governance.
According to him, “Your commitment and sacrifices are unmatched anywhere in the world.
“We are celebrating today because it is important to reciprocate the gesture and this administration has something in store for you as contained in the People’s Charter of Needs,” he said.
Gov. Nwifuru maintained that his administration would consolidate on the achievements of the immediate past administration by improving the state’s economy.
The governor described the workers as partners in progress who deserved to be appreciated for their sacrifices.
He assured the people of regular promotions, prompt payment of salaries, pensions and gratuities.
He disclosed that the gratuities of those who had retired between January, 2024 and now had been paid completely.
Meanwhile, in a joint speech by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress, TUC, Ebonyi State chapters, read by the NLC chairman, Professor Ogugua Egwu, he stated that the theme of the event “People First” is an expression of the absolute need to prioritize the people in all spheres of life.
They expressed gratitude to the Governor for his benevolent to Ebonyi workers.
He further highlighted some of their plights and urged the state government to engage more teachers in public primary and secondary schools.
They also requested for the implementation of judiciary autonomy, approve welfare packages of the judiciary workers and the recall of some staff of Ebonyi State University (EBSU) who were suspended over their involvement in union activities.