Public servants in Plateau State who dedicated their lives to serving the community, only to retire 36 years ago and still await their entitled pensions, have finally found a beacon of hope in Governor Caleb Mutfwang’s administration.
Since 1986, these senior citizens, many of whom are bedridden, have been left without their gratuities, with some receiving as little as N5,000 as pension.
Amidst despair and dwindling faith, Governor Mutfwang’s arrival brought a glimmer of hope. He pledged a governance model that prioritizes every citizen’s welfare, emphasizing that paying pensions is not merely an achievement but a fundamental obligation his administration would uphold with utmost seriousness.
Upon assuming office, Governor Mutfwang swiftly cleared the backlog of four months’ salaries owed to striking workers, amounting to N11 billion. He pioneered a groundbreaking retreat for government officials and labor unions, fostering capacity-building and nurturing harmonious government-labor relations.
Governor Mutfwang’s actions matched his promises. He breathed life back into the weary hearts of retirees by approving the payment of pension and gratuity arrears dating back to 1986. Furthermore, he championed the upward review of Hazard Allowance for medical personnel and implemented a N30,000 minimum wage, accompanied by a N12,000 fuel subsidy removal palliative for civil servants.
Under his leadership, Plateau State witnessed the restoration of electricity to the State Secretariat, provision of economic hardship palliatives such as rice, maize, and fertilizer, and consistent payment of Checkup dues to respective unions.
The State Head of Civil Service, Mrs. Rauta Dakok, affirmed the administration’s commitment to pensioners, disclosing the release of N300 million monthly to settle pension arrears. She highlighted significant increases in hazard allowance and minimum monthly pension, reflecting a tangible improvement in retirees’ welfare.
Mr. Ben Bello, State Chairman of the Nigerian Union of Pensioners, lauded Governor Mutfwang’s administration, expressing gratitude for the tangible impact on pensioners’ lives. He commended the prompt payment of gratuities and pensions, indicating substantial progress from 1986 to 2009 and ongoing efforts to address subsequent years.
Governor Mutfwang’s unwavering commitment to workers’ welfare earned him accolades from labor unions. Mr. Eugene Manji, State Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress, commended the administration’s responsiveness to workers’ concerns, particularly the revitalization of hope for pensioners. He praised the administration’s proactive approach in settling pension arrears and concurrent payments for recent retirees.
In conclusion, Governor Mutfwang’s administration has ushered in a new era of dignity and respect for Plateau State pensioners. His unwavering dedication to fulfilling obligations and restoring the rights of retired public servants stands as a testament to compassionate governance and commitment to social justice.
SOURCE: MATTHEW TEGHA
