By Chiangi Avese, Makurdi
Benue state Governor, Rev. Fr. Hyacinth Alia has urged Benue workers to maintain high standards of professionalism and excellence at workplaces.
Gov. Alia who made the call on Thursday at IBB Square, Makurdi, where the celebration of Workers’ Day in the state was held, expressed profound gratitude to the Benue workers for their vital role in driving the state’s progress.
The Governor said the state workers deserved special acknowledgement for the successes made so far by his administration.
Gov. Alia pointed out the implementation of a ₦75,000 minimum wage, exceeding the federal benchmark by ₦5,000 as a way of elevating the living standards of civil servants and reflecting a commitment to enhancing worker’s welfare and productivity.
He said reforms in pension processes is meant to ensure that retirees from the state civil service receive their entitlements without undue delay. Part payment of five months’ salary arrears for workers, including political appointees from previous administrations will henceforth be regular. This is aimed at restoring dignity to those who have served the state.
Gov. Alia disclosed that the newly established Benue Public Service Institute has begun the training of the over 40,000 workers in e-governance, preparing them for a modernized public service, explaining that the institute will soon offer postgraduate programs to further enhance skills and promote career advancement.
He cited the transportation subsidy initiative in the state as one of his administration’s way of easing commuting cost as well as subsidized fertilizers for workers and farmers as a
reflection of his administration’s commitment to a holistic approach in addressing worker welfare.
Emphasizing the importance of collaboration between the government and labor unions in the State, the Governor reaffirmed his commitment to building a Benue that rewards hard work and upholds the dignity of labor, saying, “together, we will build a future that our children will be proud to inherit”.
The Governor assured that the voices of the state workers will always play a crucial role in the administration’s vision.
