Ebonyi State Governor, Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru, has approved a ₦150,000 Christmas bonus for all civil servants in the state.
The governor announced the bonus on Sunday during a church service at the Government House Chapel in Abakaliki, describing the payment as part of his administration’s commitment to workers’ welfare, even in the face of declining state revenue.
According to him, the gesture is meant to appreciate workers for their dedication and to help them cope with the economic pressures of the festive season.
Despite acknowledging that the state has experienced reduced income in the past year, Nwifuru said his government remains focused on policies that support workers and improve their living conditions.
Speaking on the forthcoming local government elections, the governor said he has not endorsed any aspirant and would not interfere in the process.
“The will of the people must prevail. Everyone must be allowed to choose their leaders freely, without pressure from anywhere,” he said.
He also restated his directive that political appointees who intend to contest the council elections must resign their positions, in line with electoral rules.
“It is not my responsibility to appoint local government chairmen. Anyone holding a political appointment and seeking elective office must resign, as required by law,” Nwifuru added.
The governor also addressed concerns over the Vincent Agwu Nwankwo Flyover project, dismissing claims that work on the project has stalled.
He described the flyover as one of the biggest infrastructure projects in the state, noting that its scale and technical demands require careful execution.
“When completed, it will change the look of the city and add significant value to its environment,” he said.
Nwifuru criticised what he called misleading social media reports about his administration, insisting that his government is deliberately investing in projects that will leave a lasting legacy.
“We are not doing this because we have excess funds. We are doing it because we want Ebonyi to be counted among states with modern infrastructure and good governance,” he said.
He added that his administration is determined to place Ebonyi State on the global map through sustainable development and long-term planning.
