Olu Samuel
The Kogi state governor Alhaji Ahmed Usman Oododo had asked civil servants in the state not to see salary payments as favour but responsibility of leadership.
A statement issued in the early hours v8f Sunday by the Special adviser to the governor, Ismail lsah stated that Ododo made the comment on Saturday when the leadership of the Kogi state chapter of the Nigeria labour Congress NLC paid him a visit at the lugard House seat of the state government.
The governor said “Your Salary is your right and not a privilege, we are here to serve, and my administration will continue to uphold the dignity of labour and ensure that workers receive what is due to them”, he said.
Governor Ododo reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to building a public service system where civil servants can thrive, adding that the government values the cooperation and partnership of the organized labour in achieving its development goals.
Earlier the State Chairman of the Nigeria labour Congress NLC Gabriel Amari had showered praise on the governor for priotising workers welfare through prompt payment of salaries, implementation of minimum wage and disbursement of leave bonuses.
“Our visit here today is to express appreciation for fulfilment of promises made to workers, especially in the areas of welfare and improved working conditions adding that the union appreciate the prompt implementation of the minimum wage, consistent and timely payment of workers’ salaries, disbursement of leave bonuses, and the extension of health insurance cover to pensioners in the state” he said.
The labour leaders also applauded the Governor’s support for infrastructural development at the Labour House, which includes the provision of a functional borehole, a 33kva electricity line, and a new transformer all aimed at improving the working environment for union activities.
Similarly, NULGE executives led by Mohammed Sanusi expressed satisfaction with the Governor’s attention to the welfare of local government workers.
They also emphasized the full implementation of the minimum wage and prompt payment of 100% salaries at the grassroots level, which they described as unprecedented.