Ogun State Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, has approved the implementation of certain resolutions from the National Council on Establishments (NCE) into the state’s civil service.
The State’s Head of Service, Mr. Kehinde Onasanya, made this known during a courtesy visit by the leadership of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Ogun State Council, led by its Chairman, Comrade Hameed Ademola-Benco, on Thursday.
According to Onasanya, the governor, who is recognized as a worker-friendly and responsive leader, has approved the lateral conversion to corresponding officers cadre for Information Officers, who will now be referred to as Information/Public Relations Officers. Additionally, entry points for Graduate Nurses and Engineers will be set at GL 10, among other resolutions aimed at boosting workers’ morale.
Mr. Onasanya emphasized that workers’ welfare is a priority, noting that various concerns are being addressed. He highlighted that the state government has paid workers’ deductions from July 2022 to date and is committed to clearing outstanding deductions between March 2021 and June 2022. Leave allowances have been settled from January 2023 to date, with arrears being processed for clearance, and July salaries have been paid.
Highlighting the proactive nature of the administration, the Head of Service noted that Ogun was the first state in the South West to introduce various palliative measures to mitigate the impact of increased petroleum prices. The state prioritizes capacity building and has not neglected workers’ healthcare, covering 50 percent of costs through the Ogun State Health Insurance Scheme.
Regarding the consequential adjustments raised by the labour leader, Mr. Onasanya assured that the two committees established on the issue have concluded their reports, which will be reviewed.
He assured that his office would continue to maintain a cordial relationship with the labour unions to enhance workers’ welfare.
In his remarks, Comrade Ademola-Benco expressed appreciation to the Head of Service for the opportunity to engage directly, especially on matters affecting workforce welfare. He thanked the State Government for its support and listed demands including consequential adjustments on monthly pensions, the contributory pension scheme, and the release of all deductions and leave allowances.
The 2nd Vice Chairman, NLC, Mrs. Bidemi Alafiatayo, also expressed gratitude to the Governor Abiodun-led administration for its worker-friendly stance and numerous welfare packages.
