From Jude Owuamanam, Jos
Governor of Plateau State Caleb Manasseh Mutfwang has pledged to continue to uphold the values and ethics of the civil service as a deliberate step towards fostering an environment for all sectors to thrive.
He said that part of his strategy and guiding principle towards achieving this goal include fairness, justice, and equity in the treatment of every worker.
Speaking at the Plateau State government/Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC) retreat on promoting effective social dialogue for industrial relations under the context of The Time is Now Mantra in Jos on Monday, Mutfwang said that since the inception of his administration, his commitment had been unwavering in improving the Plateau State Workforce.
He added that the retreat exemplified his dedication to reshaping the narrative and ideologies hindering the efficiency of the civil service.
The governor said, “In recognising the significance of the civil service, we have prioritised its well-being by fulfilling promises, such as clearing outstanding salaries, rejuvenating the workforce through training, and ensuring the regular release of overheads for enhanced productivity.
“The welfare of civil servants is paramount; hence, we have cleared the backlog of inherited salaries which spanned over four months and we are up-to-date with payment of workers salaries. Also, we have approved the payment of the 90% Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS) and 75% hazard allowance.
“Similarly, we have approved the payment of 75% Hazard Allowance to other health workers i.e. the Joint Health Workers Union (JOHESU) and the National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives. Additionally, efforts are underway to address longstanding issues like gratuities, death benefits, and pension arrears as the last payment of gratuity was done in 1985.
“The theme of this retreat, “Promoting Effective Social Dialogue for Industrial Relations Under the Context of The Time Is Now Mantra,” is apt and timely. Industrial harmony is crucial for development, and the civil service must be a cornerstone of continuous dialogue to achieve this.
“The time is now for mutual benefit, industrial harmony, worker welfare, training, prompt payment of salaries, and promotions. With God’s grace and your cooperation, we shall achieve these goals seamlessly.
He described workers as the engine of his administration, and pledged to liaise with the Head of Civil Service for continuous training.