Plateau State Governor, Barr. Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang, has given approval for the disbursement of gratuities, death benefits, and pension arrears amounting to approximately N20 billion, covering the period from 1985.
Emphasizing his administration’s dedication to the welfare of workers, Governor Mutfwang insists that every worker deserves their rightful wages. It was on this account that he said certain amount of money would be set aside monthly for the payment of gratuities, death benefits and pension arrears.
The Governor made these remarks on Monday during the opening of the Plateau State Government/Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC) retreat on effective social dialogue for industrial relations. The event, held at Jonggrand Hotel, Bukuru, Plateau State, focusing on the “Time is Now” mantra.
“The welfare of civil servants is of utmost importance; thus, we have cleared the backlog of inherited salaries spanning over four months. We are current with salary payments and have approved the disbursement of the 90% Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS) and a 75% hazard allowance.
“Likewise, we have granted a 75% Hazard Allowance to other health workers, including the Joint Health Workers Union (JOHESU) and the National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives. Additionally, measures are underway to address longstanding issues such as gratuities, death benefits, and pension arrears, with the last gratuity payment made in 1985,” he said.
Governor Mutfwang highlighted the significance of training and retraining of civil servants for efficient service delivery. He pledged his administration’s commitment to initiatives aimed at enhancing the performance of the workforce.
“Under my leadership, we will consistently uphold the values and ethics of the civil service, fostering an environment for all sectors to thrive. Our guiding principles include fairness, justice, and equity in our treatment of every worker.
“The time is now for mutual benefit, industrial harmony, worker welfare, training, prompt payment of salaries, and promotions. With God’s grace and your cooperation, we shall seamlessly achieve these goals,” he stated.
Also speaking, the Head of Service, Plateau State, Mrs. Rauta Dakok, explained that the joint retreat is the first of its kind in Plateau. She expressed optimism that the training would enrich the workforce and foster a mutually beneficial relationship between the government and union leaders in oder to provide them with insights into policy development to enhance the civil service.
