By Lawal Taofeek
Kebbi Governor, Nasir Idris, has inaugurated a committee to investigate salary payments and the implementation of the new minimum wage for primary school teachers.
The governor’s Chief Press Secretary disclosed this in a statement made available to the Newsmen in Birnin-Kebbi on Monday.
The Newsmen reports that the committee was inaugurated at the Government House Chamber on Monday.
The governor reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to justice and fairness for teachers across the state.
“I have a personal interest in this committee. I know how much the teachers were earning before, and I also know how much I approved as their new minimum wage,” he said.
Idris urged members to carry out their assignment diligently and objectively, warning that no form of compromise would be tolerated.
“I trust the committee members. That is why I carefully selected credible individuals who will do the job thoroughly and professionally,” he added.
He said the committee’s inauguration followed a recent meeting with the leadership of the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) and a Town Hall meeting.
“Following our meeting with the leadership of the Nigeria Union of Teachers and the outcome of the Town Hall meeting, I hereby inaugurate this committee,” he said.
He said the panel would identify the actual grievances of primary school teachers regarding salary payments.
Newsmen also reports that the committee will determine the actual monthly funding from local governments to Local Government Education Authorities (LGEAs).
It will also examine funding levels before the implementation of the new minimum wage.
“The committee is to confirm whether there are any infractions capable of undermining the integrity of funds released to LGEAs,” the governor said.
He said the committee would identify individuals responsible for salary placement issues and apportion blame where necessary.
According to him, the committee will also distinguish between professional and non-professional teachers and recommend measures to address any anomalies identified.
Idris said the committee had been given one month to submit its report.
The seven-member committee is chaired by Prof. Malami Shehu Gulumbe, while a representative of the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs will serve as secretary.