NLC hails Gov Bago as messiah for civil servants in Niger
By Baba Alfa, Minna
The Governor of Niger State, Umar Bago, has been hailed as a messiah to civil servants in the state due to his exceptional leadership and commitment to improving the welfare of workers.
Comrade Idris Abdulkareem Lafene, Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) Niger State Chapter, made this statement in an exclusive chat with News Direct in his office along IBB Road Uphill, Minna, on Monday.
Lafene expressed satisfaction with the unprecedented strides made in the welfare of workers since Bago assumed office.
According to him, the governor has proven himself as a true leader of the people by surpassing the Federal Government’s proposed salary increment of ₦70,000, offering state civil servants a minimum wage of ₦80,000.
“In Niger State, after several negotiations with us, Governor Umar Bago unveiled an unexpected pay package of ₦80,000 for state civil servants. This has certainly silenced the skeptics and has been a game-changer in the state,” Lafene said.
The NLC Chairman also expressed his gratitude to the State Executive Council (SEC) members for their dedication in advocating for the workers’ welfare. He acknowledged their hard work and unity in securing the milestone achievement under the leadership of Governor Bago.
Lafene further highlighted other notable accomplishments, including the payment of gratuities, 11 tranches of ₦500 million each for state and local government area (LGA) workers, and the payment of wage awards for civil servants at both state and LGA levels.
Additionally, he pointed to significant progress in clearing arrears of the 7.5% Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS) contributions following amendments to the CPS Bill, as well as the lifting of the embargo on cadre changes and transfers of service.
He also mentioned the domestication of Grade Level 17 for LGA staff, along with political appointments for labor veterans and members of the Organized Labour Political Commission.
The NLC Chairman reiterated that with the continued support of SEC, the NLC and its affiliate unions are determined to achieve even greater success, focusing on workers’ welfare, industrial harmony, and advancing their collective agenda for the sustainable development of Niger State.
“We will continue to prioritize the welfare of our members and ensure progress for civil servants across the state,” Lafene affirmed.
