A public appeal has been made by veterinary doctors in Kogi State to Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, urging the settlement of all outstanding arrears owed to them by the state government.
During a press conference in Lokoja, the Kogi State Chairman of the Nigeria Veterinary Medical Association (NVMA), Dr Tolu Omotugba, expressed gratitude to Governor Ododo for approving and promptly implementing the 2021 Revised Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS) for members within the Kogi State Civil Service.
Dr. Omotugba emphasized the significance of the Governor’s support for the welfare of Kogi State workers and the vital role played by veterinary professionals in the state’s economic progress.
He stressed the importance of timely payment of accumulated arrears since the adoption of the revised salary structure in January 2021, highlighting the positive impact it has on the motivation and dedication of veterinary doctors in their responsibilities.
The veterinary doctors also requested expedited action from Governor Ododo in disbursing the approved arrears to 30 individuals, emphasizing their reasonable expectations for fair treatment.
In addition, they urged Governor Ododo to take advantage of the establishment of the Ministry of Livestock Development under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration by creating a similar ministry in Kogi State and appointing a qualified veterinarian as its commissioner.
Dr. Omotugba emphasized the importance of this ministry in promoting harmony between herders and farmers in Kogi State, citing the substantial population of herders in the region and advocating for a veterinary doctor to lead the ministry.
Furthermore, Dr. Omotugba encouraged Governor Ododo to continue his commendable efforts in Kogi State, as civil servants prepare to support his reelection campaign in 2027.