Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State has reassured workers in the state of his administration’s unwavering commitment to improving the welfare of civil servants.
He equally assured civil servants in the state that modalities have been put in place to address longstanding issues like gratuities, death benefits, and pension arrears as the last payment of gratuity was done over three decades ago.
He also said his administration will continue to uphold the “values and ethics” of the workers, being a deliberate step towards fostering an environment for all sectors to thrive.
Mutfwang stated this on Monday while speaking at a retreat organised by the State Government/Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC), in Jos the State Capital.
The retreat is tagged: Promoting Social Dialogue for Industrial Relations under the Context of the Time is Now Mantra.
He said, “I am delighted to be part of this collaborative event which is aimed at fostering a partnership between my administration and the labor unions to enhance the lives and productivity of our public and civil servants.
According to him, “Since the inception of this administration, our commitment has been unwavering in improving the Plateau State Workforce.
“This retreat exemplifies our dedication to reshaping the narrative and ideologies hindering the efficiency of the civil service.
“In recognising the significance of the civil service, we have prioritized its well-being by fulfilling promises, such as clearing outstanding salaries, rejuvenating the workforce through training, and ensuring the regular release of overheads for enhanced productivity”, he maintained.
“Under my leadership, we shall continue to uphold the values and ethics of the civil service as a deliberate step towards fostering an environment for all sectors to thrive. Our guiding principles include fairness, justice, and equity in our treatment of every worker.
“The welfare of civil servants is paramount; hence, we have cleared the backlog of inherited salaries which spanned over four months and we are up-to-date with the payment of workers salaries. Also, we have approved the payment of the 90% Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS) and 75% hazard allowance.
“Similarly, we have approved the payment of 75% Hazard Allowance to other health workers i.e. the Joint Health Workers Union (JOHESU) and the National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives”, he explained.
“Additionally, efforts are underway to address longstanding issues like gratuities, death benefits, and pension arrears as the last payment of gratuity was done in 1985.
”The theme of this retreat, “Promoting Effective Social Dialogue for Industrial Relations Under the Context of The Time Is Now Mantra,” is apt and timely. Industrial harmony is crucial for development, and the civil service must be a cornerstone of continuous dialogue to achieve this.
