The Akwa Ibom State government has declared every first and third Friday of the month as work free Days for farming in the State.
Governor Umo Eno said this at the 2024 May Day celebration held at the Uyo Township Stadium, Uyo where he also approved another N2 billion for gratuities in the State Civil Service.
Speaking on the theme, “People first”, the Governor, assured that money is met to defray the additional backlog of gratuity of retired workers in the State.
The development brings the total amount paid so far, by his administration to N18.1 billion Naira, according to the Governor as part of efforts to actualize the food security and sufficiency aspirations of the Arise Agenda.
“For the Bulk Purchase Agency, it is a short-term intervention. For a more sustainable solution, we must go back to the farm, working with the Ministry of Agriculture.
“I am therefore declaring the first and last Friday of every month Farm days in the State. It won’t be a day for funerals. We will monitor to ensure everyone goes to the farm,” Governor Eno said.
PROMOTION
“We have approved and granted refund of outstanding N7.5% contributory pension scheme, we have paid 3 months promotions, we have released 2023 promotions.
“We granted approval for the conduct of service examination, we have invested in affordable housing unit for our workers in Ibiono Ibom Local Government.
“I have authorized and work is ongoing at the 3rd Ring Road so that we can link our workers there to Uyo. We have approved your land allocations. And so you can begin your building at any time. We recently swore in Permanent Secretaries, and we would appoint more as some are soon to retire.
“Of course, the 13 months’ salary is ongoing. We have approved the recruitment of health workers in the State for the Primary health centres,” he added.
Speaking on the issue of minimum wage for workers; he said, “We will wait on the federal government to provide more details and we will implement the new minimum wage for our workers.
In response to an earlier by labour, the governor presented two vehicles to the chairmen of NLC and TUC.
Earlier in his remarks, the State Chairman of the Nigerian Labour Congress, Comrade Sunny James appreciated Governor Umo Eno for fulfilling his campaign promises to Akwa Ibom workers.
James stated that organized labour is never quick at praising Governors but said that given the strides of Governor Eno in less than one year in office, he deserves a louder ovation.
He specifically appreciated the Governor for prompt payment of gratuities to retirees of the State, Local Government and primary school teachers.
In addition, the approvals for the refund of 7.5% contributory pension from workers and many other gestures which according to him are answers to prayers of Akwa Ibom workers, according to him.
Similarly, his Trade Union Congress counterpart, Comrade Dominic Abang, specially appreciated the governor for always putting the people of the State first in line with the theme of the celebration.
The Labour leaders also took turn to commend the Governor for prioritising the welfare of Akwa Ibom workers as well as retired ones through the 13th month salary, palliatives, and regular release of funds for payment of arrears of gratuity.
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