Tag: TUC

By Anthony Uwadiegwu

Workers in Cross River State have expressed profound gratitude for the governor’s decision to pay N40,000 living wage to public and civil servants in the State.

The government of Cross River State, under the leadership of Governor Bassey Out, has announced a 40,000 naira salary increment for state workers, in what many said is a commendable move.

The announcement was made at the U.J Esuene Sports Stadium during the International Workers’ Day celebrations in the state capital, Calabar.

Baring their minds on the gesture, the workers who spoke in Calabar said it is a much-needed relief amidst the current economic challenges plaguing the country.

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However, the workers who spoke in separate interviews with our correspondent in Calabar appealed to the Governor to make good his promise effective from this May payment.

For Festus Eka, an employee of one of the state ministries, who expressed his appreciation, said the additional 10,000 naira would go a long way in addressing his family’s basic needs, such as food and utilities.

“I have three children, and this increment will ensure that essentials like garri and noodles are no longer a burden,” Eka remarked.

Similarly, Mrs. Magdalene Asuquo, a staff member of a state agency, emphasized the positive impact the salary increase will have on her family of four.

“The 10,000 naira increment means a lot to us, especially now. It will significantly reduce the burden of buying food items, which have become increasingly expensive,” she said.

Another state employee, Theressa Ogbeche, expressed her delight in witnessing this development while still in service and appealed  that the payment  should be effected in their May salary.

“The governor’s people first agenda is evident, and this salary increment, coupled with the implementation of arrears and step increments, is a huge leap forward,” she stated.

On his part, the Trade Union Congress (TUC) Chairman, Comrade Monday Ogbodum, commended Governor Bassey Otu for his unwavering commitment to the welfare of Cross River State workers.

“A healthy workforce is a productive one, and the governor’s passion for civil servants is a testament to his desire for the state’s growth and development,” Ogbodum remarked.

Our reporter learned that the workers’ unanimous praise for the governor’s actions underscores the significance of this decision, which has brought much-needed relief to the state’s workforce.

The salary increment is seen as a tangible demonstration of the governor’s commitment to addressing the economic challenges faced by civil servants and ensuring their well-being.

….Appreciates N40,000 salary increment

By Anthony Uwadiegwu

The Cross River State Council of the Trade Union Congress (TUC) has lauded the state government under the leadership of Senator Prince Bassey Otu, the “people’s first Governor,” for its remarkable achievements within the first eleven months in office.

The Congress used the opportunity  to call on Civil / public servants and indeed, the entire Cross Riverians to be patient and give governor Otu the chance to deliver dividends of democracy which he has already started.

In a statement issued by the State Chairman of the Union, Comrade Monday Ogbodum, the TUC further commended the government for its efforts in rehabilitating and constructing roads within the Calabar Metropolis, improving street lighting as well as the beautification of the city capital and restoring traffic control lights.

He also lauded the government for the proposed #40,000 salary increment, implementation of annual incremental steps, full implementation of 2014/2016 promotions, the Christmas and Easter bonuses paid to workers amongst others.

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Comrade Ogbodum noted that he believes in the principles of appreciation even in a little thing in other to achieve bigger ones.

The TUC Chairman however stressed the urgent need for the Cross River State Government to fulfill other obligations to civil/ public servants by promptly attending to workers welfare demands, particularly looking towards the direction of payment of gratuity.

While also calling on workers to be dedicated and be punctual at their duty posts, Comrade Ogbodum said, this would erase the 5% productivity level of the work force as declared by His Excellency during his May Day address.

“We must put in our best to achieve effective service delivery in all MDAs,” the TUC Chairman reiterated.

He appealed  to the workers to be hopeful, as the Organised Labor continues their engagement with the government to secure a more favorable outcome. While also appealing to government to live up to its promises and promptly too, most importantly the commencement of the implementation of the new salary structure as announced.

“As the Cross River State Government confronts the pressing issue of meeting the worker’s welfare demands promptly, the TUC’s appeal echoes the concerns of many civil and public servants who have been adversely affected by the economic downturn.

“In doing so, they can demonstrate their commitment to upholding the well-being and fair treatment of their invaluable workforce, reaffirming their dedication to the people of Cross River State,” Ogbodum  stated.