Otu Remains Committed To Workers' Welfare, Enhances Working Environment, Says Commissioner
The Government of Cross River has assured workers that the Sen. Bassey Otu led administration will continue to prioritise their welfare as part of efforts to engender development across the nooks and crannies of the state.
It noted that aside from the full implementation of the N70,000 minimum wage, the government has provided a conducive working environment for ensuring the productivity of the civil servant.
Dr Erasmus Ekpang, the state Commissioner for Information, stated this in an interview in Calabar on Saturday.
He said since the advent of the present administration, the government has pursued relentlessly, clearing of backlogs of promotion arreares, and kickstarted payment of unpaid retirees gratuities dating back to 2014.
Ekpang debunk the claim that the state is yet to implement the payment of the new minimum wage assented to by President Bola Tinubu in 2024.
It is not true that Cross River is yet to implement the new wage law, as a matter of fact, the state commenced implementation of the new wage in December 1, 2024.
The Bassey Otu led government will mot do anything to ensure a productive workforce, and the way to go about this is to promote their welfare," he atated.
Speaking on the unpaid gratuities, Ekpang acknowledged the financial burden inherited by his administration, "tackling the backlog remains a top priority and the government has started it with the release of N10 billion."
He expressed deep concern for retirees who dedicated over three decades of service to the state, only to face hardship due to unpaid entitlements.
“The people who worked hard for this state deserve better. Their prayers should not be prayers of tears.
Whether still in service or retired, governor Otu’s position is that workers should be protected in order not to discourage those willing to take up appointments with the government in future.
SOURCE: NAN
