…………Reaffirms Commitment to Workers’ Welfare, Modernization, and Sustainable Progress.
FIC Report (Benue State) – Benue State Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia, joined thousands of civil servants at IBB Square, Makurdi, to celebrate this year’s Workers’ Day, expressing heartfelt appreciation for their vital contributions to the state’s development.
Addressing the enthusiastic crowd, Governor Alia praised Benue’s workforce as the engine room of progress, emphasizing that the achievements recorded by his administration over the past two years would not have been possible without their dedication and resilience.
In a major policy highlight, the Governor announced the implementation of a ₦75,000 minimum wage—₦5,000 higher than the federal benchmark—underscoring his administration’s commitment to improving the living standards and motivation of civil servants.
He also outlined several strides taken to enhance worker welfare and efficiency, including:
Pension Reforms: Swift and transparent processing of retirees’ entitlements, restoring dignity to former public servants.
Salary Arrears: Part payment of five months’ salary arrears, covering both civil servants and political appointees of past administrations, with a pledge for consistent payments going forward.
Training & Digital Transformation: Launch of the Benue Public Service Institute, currently training over 40,000 civil servants in e-governance. Plans are underway to introduce postgraduate programs aimed at further career development.
Transportation Subsidy: As a cushion against the impact of fuel subsidy removal, the state now provides commuting support for workers.
Agricultural Support: Subsidized fertilizers for farming communities as part of a holistic welfare approach.
Governor Alia urged workers to uphold professionalism, integrity, and excellence, while denouncing negative practices in the public service. He emphasized the need for continuous collaboration between the government and labor unions, stating that unity and shared vision are essential for sustainable development.
“Our administration remains committed to building a Benue that honors hard work and protects the dignity of labor. Together, we will create a future our children will be proud to inherit,” the Governor declared.
He concluded with an assurance that the voices of workers will continue to be integral in shaping the policies and direction of his government.
Signed
Irene Iveren Onehi
Head of Center,
Federal Information Center Makurdi
