“To whom much is given, much is expected” – Taraba HOS tells workers
OKERAFOR ATHANATIUS, JALINGO
Civil Servants in Taraba State Northeast Nigeria have been admonished to put more efforts in the discharge of their duties to achieve the needed goals.
The Head of Service (HOS) of the State, Dr. Ahmed Hamidu Kara made the admonition during the Workers’ Day Celebration held Thursday at the Jolly Nyame Stadium, Jalingo.
Dr. Kara said commitment and dedication to duties will reciprocate the state Government’s gesture and deeds done to the State workers and also enhance productivity.
While appreciating the Governor for taking the welfare of Civil Servants seriously, HOS highlighted the achievements of the State Governor Dr. Agbu Kefas as; the implementation of (N70,000.00) New Minimum Wage, implementation of Free Education Policy, 50% reduction of school fees of all Tertiary Institutions in the State, renovation of govt facilities and edifices, among others.
Dr Ahmed Kara addressing workers at the event
Describing the Governor’s gesture as a remarkable achievement, HOS advised that both the State government and the entire people of the State are expecting much from civil Servants because of the motivational powers that have been provided for them by the Governor.
“To whom much is given, much is expected”, HOS added.
In a remark, the State Governor, Dr. Agbu Kefas lauded the sportsmanship of the State Civil Servants for their resilience, professionalism and dedication in the service of the State.
Governor Kefas who was represented by the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. John Kizito Bonzena, further pledged the payment of Workers’ salaries, entitlements and allowances without delay describing same as his priority.
“The State Government, under my watch remains committed to prioritizing the welfare of Civil Servants and I am poised in addressing your concerns through policy and administrative action”, Kefas assured.
Presenting their speeches earlier, the Chairman, Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Taraba State chapter, Comrade Peter Jediel, and his Trade Union Congress (TUC) counterpart Comrade Sule Abasu all applauded Governor Agbu Kefas for implementing the N70,000.00 new minimum wage, Free Education Policy, slashing of 50% school fees of the State tertiary institutions and for providing a more secured environment for the people of the state.
“We also want to state that Taraba State is one of the states of the federation that have implemented the best minimum wage of N70,000.00”,
“Also, in the area of security, Governor Kefas had provided a more secured environment for the people of the State”,
“In the area of food security, Governor Kefas has taken responsibility in the procurement of agricultural inputs such as tractors of different categories, fertilizers, among others to boost and guarantee food security in the State”, he said.
Sending their fraternal greetings to Taraba Workers on behalf of NLC National President, Comrade Joe Ajaero, and TUC National President Engr. Osifo Festus the duo said the theme of the year’s celebration is, “Proclaiming the civic space in the midst of economic hardship”.
Accordingly, choice of this year’s theme is not only timely, but also clearly defined the current state of Nigeria as a nation.
The NLC State chairman Jediel however, called on the State government to assist them with vehicles, saying they are constrained in their operations due to absence of a good vehicle.
“As organized labour, we are pleading with His Excellency to look into the problem of outstanding check up dues, welfare and multi purpose deductions which were not remitted by the office of the Accountant General”.
The TUC State chairman, Comrade Sule Abasu also asks the State government for the provision of more funds to capture retirees in the State especially Teachers and Local Government Staff for pension a d Gratuity among other requests.
