Ebonyi Governor Okays ₦150,000 Yuletide Bonus for State Workers
By Omaka OKOH
Abakaliki
Governor Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru of Ebonyi State has approved the payment of a ₦150,000 Christmas bonus to all civil servants in the state as part of efforts to improve workers’ welfare.
The governor said the decision reflects his administration’s commitment to supporting workers despite declining revenue inflows to the state over the past year.
Nwifuru announced the bonus on Sunday during a church service at the Government House Chapel in Abakaliki.
Speaking on the forthcoming local government elections, the governor said he had not endorsed any candidate and would ensure a free and fair process for all aspirants.
He stressed that the choice of leaders must be left to the people without interference, adding that his administration would guarantee a level playing field throughout the electoral process.
The governor also reiterated his directive that political appointees intending to contest the local government elections must resign their positions in line with electoral regulations.
According to him, it is not the responsibility of the governor to select council chairmen, noting that any appointee seeking elective office at the local government level must comply fully with the law.
Addressing concerns over the Vincent Agwu Nwankwo Flyover project, popularly known as VANCO, Nwifuru dismissed claims that work had stalled, describing the project as one of the major infrastructural undertakings of his administration.
He explained that the flyover involves complex engineering processes, adding that few states in the country are currently executing projects of such scale.
The governor said the project, when completed, would significantly enhance the outlook of Abakaliki and improve traffic flow within the city.
Nwifuru also criticised what he described as misleading narratives by some social media commentators, insisting that his administration is focused on implementing projects that will place Ebonyi State among those with modern and advanced infrastructure.
He said the government was not executing projects because of excess funds but to create a lasting legacy and ensure sustainable development.
According to him, Ebonyi State is determined to earn recognition on the global stage through good governance, modern infrastructure and long term development planning.
