Author: Gist Correspondent

...Govt reaffirms  commitment to workers\' welfare 

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Rivers State Council, has commended the Rivers State Government for what it described as a clear demonstration of worker-friendly governance following the payment of a ₦100,000 Christmas bonus to civil and public servants and pensioners in the state.

In a letter addressed to Governor Siminalayi Fubara, the NLC, through its Chairperson, Comrade Alex Agwanwor, praised the administration for sustaining the bonus scheme for the third consecutive year, noting that the gesture has brought much-needed relief to workers amid prevailing economic challenges.

The labour centre said the timely disbursement of the bonus reflects the government’s sensitivity to the welfare of workers and pensioners, particularly at a time when many families are grappling with rising living costs.

According to the NLC, the Christmas bonus has not only boosted morale within the public service but has also strengthened confidence in the Fubara-led administration’s commitment to prioritising workers’ interests.

Reacting to the commendation, the Rivers State Government, through the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Information and Communications, Dr Honour Sirawoo, acknowledged the NLC’s position and reaffirmed that the welfare of workers remains a core priority of the administration.

Dr Sirawoo noted that the annual bonus has become a consistent expression of appreciation for the dedication and sacrifices of civil and public servants, adding that the government recognises the economic realities confronting workers.

He stressed that the state views the NLC as a strategic partner in governance, particularly in advancing the “Rivers First” development agenda, and described the cordial relationship between government and organised labour as critical to stability and productivity.

The Permanent Secretary further assured that beyond festive bonuses, the government remains focused on long-term policies aimed at improving working conditions and strengthening social safety nets for workers and their families.

The NLC, while applauding the gesture, reiterated its expectation that the state government would continue to uphold policies and programmes that promote the dignity, welfare and overall wellbeing of workers in Rivers State.