PRESS RELEASE

Governor Malam Dikko Umar Radda has reaffirmed the state government's commitment to implementing the new national minimum wage for workers in the state. This assurance was given in his address at the annual May Day celebration organized by the State Council of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) at the Muhammadu Dikko Stadium in Katsina.

Governor Radda emphasized the administration's dedication to implementing the contributory state pension scheme to prevent delays in benefit payments to workers after retirement. To facilitate this, the appointment of a secretary and three technical directors has been made to oversee the scheme's successful commencement.

In line with this commitment, the valuation of state, local government, and local education authority staff has already begun. Governor Radda announced the approval for the payment of accumulated backlog of gratuities and death benefits amounting to over forty-eight billion naira, inherited from the previous administration. This payment will cover the period from 2023 to date for retired and deceased staff across state, local government, and LEAs, with payment to be made in six installments from January to June this year.

Furthermore, Governor Radda approved the continuation of gratuity payments from July onwards, once the outstanding gratuities and death benefits have been cleared. He also highlighted the government's focus on human capital development, with over one hundred and thirty-seven million naira allocated for the sponsorship of 2,263 civil servants for short and long-term training programs. Additionally, the government has injected over two hundred million naira into the workers' revolving loan scheme to support employee financial needs.

The Katsina State Government remains steadfast in its commitment to the welfare and well-being of its workforce, and these initiatives demonstrate its dedication to improving the lives of its citizens.

Signed:

Ibrahim Kaula Mohammed

Chief Press Secretary to the Katsina State Governor