Approval has been given by Ebonyi State governor, Rt. Hon. Francis Nwifuru, for an increase of N10,000 in civil servants’ salaries.
Additionally, the recruitment of 1,700 teachers has been sanctioned to address the shortage of personnel in public primary and secondary schools.
During the Workers’ Day celebration at Pa Ngele Oruta township Stadium in Abakaliki on Wednesday, the governor announced these decisions on May 1, 2024.
He praised the workers’ unmatched commitment and sacrifices, emphasizing the importance of reciprocating these gestures as outlined in the People’s Charter of Needs.
In his address, he highlighted plans to build on the achievements of the previous administration and boost the state’s economy.
Nwifuru lauded the workers as essential partners in progress who deserve appreciation for their dedication.
He pledged regular promotions, timely payment of salaries, pensions, and gratuities, noting that the gratuities of retirees from January 2024 till date have been fully settled.
The governor assured that salaries, pensions, and gratuities are being paid promptly without any outstanding debts, awaiting the outcome of minimum wage negotiations.
In response to requests from the Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, Ebonyi State chapter, Gov Nwifuru approved a N10,000 salary increment for individual workers and pledged to address all raised concerns.
During the event themed “People First,” as conveyed in a joint statement by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress, TUC, Ebonyi State chapters, priorities were placed on enhancing the welfare of workers and increasing staffing in public schools.
The groups also called for the autonomy of the judiciary, improved welfare for judiciary workers, and the reinstatement of certain staff of Ebonyi State University and Ebonyi State Teaching Hospital.
Other requests included the reabsorption of staff from the former teaching hospital into the new one, revitalization of Ebonyi State College of Education, and the streamlining of gratuity management in the state and council areas.