In a bid to enhance workforce welfare and ensure optimal performance, Ogun State Governor Prince Dapo Abiodun has approved the adoption of several resolutions aligned with the National Council on Establishments (NCE) guidelines for the state’s Civil Service.
This announcement was made by Ogun State Head of Service, Mr. Kehinde Onasanya, during a courtesy visit from the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Ogun State Council, led by Chairman Comrade Hameed Ademola-Benco.
Mr. Onasanya noted that Governor Abiodun, recognized for his worker-friendly approach, has sanctioned the reclassification of Information Officers to Information/Public Relations Officers. Additionally, entry points for Graduate Nurses and Engineers have been elevated to GL10 and GL09, respectively. These measures aim to further enhance employee morale.
He emphasized that worker welfare remains a top priority, with various issues being addressed. The government has settled workers' deductions from July 2022 to the present and is working to clear outstanding deductions from March 2021 to June 2022. Leave allowances have been paid from January 2023 onward, with efforts underway to resolve any outstanding arrears. Furthermore, July salaries have been disbursed.
Mr. Onasanya highlighted that Ogun State was the first in the South West to introduce diverse palliative measures to mitigate the impact of rising pump prices. The administration has also excelled in capacity building and has supported healthcare through the Ogun State Health Insurance Scheme, covering 50% of healthcare costs to improve accessibility.
Regarding the consequential adjustments, Mr. Onasanya reported that the two committees assigned to review these matters have completed their reports, which will soon be reviewed.
He reassured that his office will continue to strengthen its relationship with labor unions to further improve worker welfare, underscoring Governor Abiodun’s commitment to being worker-friendly.
During the visit, Comrade Ademola-Benco expressed gratitude for the opportunity to discuss workforce issues directly with the Head of Service. He thanked the state government for its steadfast support and presented several demands, including adjustments to monthly pensions, enhancements to the contributory pension scheme, and the release of all outstanding deductions and leave allowances.
Additionally, 2nd Vice Chairman Mrs. Bidemi Alafiatayo praised Governor Abiodun’s administration for its dedication to worker welfare, noting the numerous welfare initiatives introduced under his leadership.