Olu Samuel

The Kogi State Government has commenced the implementation of cash-backing the promotion of civil servants in it’s payroll.

The state commissioner for information and communication, Kingsley Fanwo disclosed this in a statement made available to newsmen on Saturday in Lokoja.

He described the ongoing exercise as a clear affirmation of the pro-labour governance philosophy of Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, stressing that the policy is designed to ensure that promotions translate into real improvements in workers’ welfare.

Fanwo disclosed that the cash-back promotion covers civil servants whose promotions date as far back as 2007, explaining that the policy is aimed at correcting years of accumulated promotion arrears and restoring confidence in the civil service.

According to him, Governor Ododo believes that promotions should go beyond official letters and documentation and must reflect meaningfully in the welfare, motivation, and living standards of workers.

“To the Governor, promotions should not just be about paper. They must have a human face and reflect in the welfare of workers. The Governor doesn’t consider the cash back of promotion a favour, but a discharge of his duty to the hardworking civil servants of Kogi State.

“This administration is committed to rewarding hardworking and dedicated civil servants who have remained steadfast in the service of Kogi State”, Fanwo said.

He noted that the cash-back promotion initiative forms part of the Governor’s governance agenda, which prioritises workers’ welfare, prompt payment of salaries, and sustained engagement with the civil service.

The Commissioner added that by addressing long-standing promotion arrears inherited over the years, the Ododo administration has demonstrated political will and a deep sense of responsibility, choosing to invest in people rather than defer difficult decisions.

“This policy affirms the administration’s respect for labour and its understanding that a motivated workforce is essential for effective governance and quality service delivery.

“The feat that has elicited a new spirt of commitment among Kogi workers would not have been possible without the improved revenue to the State as a result of the bold policies of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu. The Kogi workers will be eternally grateful to Mr President and Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo for rewarding excellence in the civil service.

“Cash backing promotions in the civil service was a major campaign issue in the build up to the 2027 Governorship election in Kogi State. The Governor assured the civil servants of his readiness to cash back their promotion. Today, that promise has been fulfilled”, he said.

Fanwo assured civil servants that workers’ welfare would remain central to government policies under the Ododo administration, urging them to continue to discharge their duties with diligence and professionalism, while reaffirming the government’s commitment to fairness, accountability, and inclusive governance.