As workers mark this year’s Workers Day, Kogi State Governor, Alh. Ahmed Usman Ododo has extended tax waiver for civil servants on the new Minimum Wage.
Recall that Gov. Ododo last year announced Tax waiver for workers after approval and implementation of the N72, 500 Minimum Wage.
Gov. Ododo announced this at the Muhammadu Buhari Civic Centre, Lokoja at a ceremony to commemorate this year’s worker’s Day.
The Governor, who was conferred with an award of excellence by the organised Labour noted that the move was because Government understands the impact of the current economic hardship on the people especially workers.
He also announced the approval of the implementation of 40 years career service and 65 years chronological retirement age for Medical Health worker Professional retirement.
“I’m pleased to announce an additional one year tax relief for the new Minimum Wage for workers. I urge all the workers to reciprocate this gesture with improved productivity.
Gov. Ododo saluted the commitment of workers to the unity and progress of the State and Nigeria, pointing out that their welfare remains his priority.
Cross section of Workers Declaring solidarity for the Governor
He added that his administration has been paying N1.2bn as gratuity annually, saying Local Government Pensioners have started receiving their gratuity, saying the effort will be sustained.
The State Head of Service, Dr. Elijah Evinemi said the Day is another opportunity to celebrate the resilience of workers in the State and country.
Dr. Evinemi reaffirmed his commitment with the support of the Governor to collaborate with civil servants to move the State forward.
On his part, the Special Adviser on Labour Matters to the Governor, Comrade Onuh Edoka described Governor Ododo as the best and workers friendly Governor in Nigeria, saying “No Vacancy in Lugard House in 2027.”
Earlier, the State Council Chairman of Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Comrade Gabriel Amari expressed appreciation to Governor Ododo for his workers friendly policies and urged him to do more.
Comrade Amari told the Governor that promotion is key to the growth of Civil Servants, hence the need to implement promotions of past years with cash backing.
He stressed the need for the State Government to intervene in the Transport system of the State, particularly the State Capital as workers and students are often stranded.
The NLC Chairman also appealed to the Governor to lift the ban on Union activities at the State owned Tertiary Institutions.
