Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, PhD, has announced the payment of a 13th-month salary, called “Eno-Mber,” set for next month to bring added cheer to state civil servants this holiday season. He made the announcement during a church service at Eternity Mission International Church in Uyo.
The 13th-month salary, introduced by Governor Eno last year, has proven popular among state workers, who are expected to welcome this year’s continuation of the bonus. Additionally, Governor Eno revealed that the state’s N80,000 minimum wage will be implemented following a verification exercise aimed at confirming active employment statuses. He cited transparency as a guiding principle, emphasizing the need to ensure that public funds are appropriately disbursed to verified civil servants.
In response to groups advocating disruptions in government-labor relations, Governor Eno highlighted his administration’s commitment to worker welfare. Since taking office, the state has disbursed N35 billion in gratuities to retirees, including local government employees and primary school teachers. Earlier this year, he also provided a N1.1 billion bonus to public servants during Public Service Week.
Governor Eno has taken multiple steps to support workers amid rising costs of living, including a three-month wage award to offset expenses following fuel subsidy removal and an affordable housing initiative. Last September, 150 homes were awarded to civil servants at Grace Estate free of charge for grades 1-8.
Further initiatives include conducting service exams for 2024 promotions, releasing 2023 promotions, increasing pensions for retirees prior to 2012, releasing the outstanding 7.5% contributory pension, and appointing 22 new permanent secretaries.
Chief Press Secretary Ekerete Udoh underscored the Governor’s commitment to strong labor-government relations and ongoing support for public workers.
