Economic challenges: Gov Abdulrazaq grants financial bonuses to workers

Governor Abdulrahman Abdulrazaq of Kwara State has approved a financial bonus that is equivalent to the monthly PAYE obligation for every civil servant in the state, including local government workers.

The emergency support measure, according to a statement by the state Commissioner for Finance, Hauwa Nuru, will last for at least three months, from October to December.

She explained that “This bonus has been approved as a buffer to bridge the gap that the correct PAYE deduction may have wrought on the newly implemented minimum wage. It is meant to serve as a soothing balm as workers adjust to the PAYE that was just correctly implemented in line with the Personal Income Tax Act.

“The payment of the bonus is effective from October and will run till December 2024. This is a significant step by His Excellency to support workers,” she added.

The commissioner advised workers who have not registered with the Kwara State Residents’ Registration Agency (KWSRRA) to do so immediately because “anyone without it will not get the bonus for November and December.”

The statement further disclosed that labour unions have also agreed to a refund of the special levy deducted from workers’ salary and suspension of deductions of same until further notice.

“Governor AbdulRazaq’s directive to deliver this relief speaks volumes about his humanity and his commitment to the welfare of Kwara workforce,” Nuru declared.