,,,,, Reaffirms Commitment to Workers’ Welfare Amid Economic Challenges
By correspondent in Lokoja.
Kogi State Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo, has approved an additional one-year extension of the ongoing tax relief for workers in the state, aimed at cushioning the impact of economic hardship and demonstrating his administration’s continued prioritization of workers’ welfare.
This is contained in a statement signed by Ismaila Isah,
Special Adviser on Media to the Governor in Lokoja and Thursday The Reporters.
The governor made the announcement during the 2025 Workers’ Day celebration at the Muhammadu Buhari Civic Centre in Lokoja.
He said the tax holiday, which began in October 2024 alongside the rollout of the new national minimum wage of N72,500, was originally due to end in October 2025, adding that it will now continue until October 2026.
“We understand the economic realities our people face, and we are taking practical steps to mitigate the effects.
“The additional one-year tax relief is a continuation of the policy we launched alongside the new minimum wage in October last year,”Governor Ododo said.
In a further policy move, Governor Ododo announced the adoption of a 40-year career service cap and a new retirement age of 65 for professional healthcare workers in the state.
He said the decision aligns with national policy reforms and aims to retain experienced personnel in the health sector for improved service delivery.
To enhance labour infrastructure, the Governor also approved the installation of a water facility at the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) Secretariat in Lokoja, known as the Comrade Onuh Edoka Labour House. The facility will also serve surrounding communities.
Governor Ododo reaffirmed his administration’s dedication to workers’ welfare through the regular payment of salaries, harmonized pensions, and the settlement of gratuities.
He also highlighted other ongoing initiatives, including free healthcare for pensioners and targeted investments in education, agriculture, and health—particularly programs benefiting youth and women.
Ododo called for sustained cooperation between organized labour and the state government, emphasizing the importance of industrial peace and harmony in achieving inclusive growth.
In his remarks, Kogi NLC Chairman, Comrade Gabriel Amari, commended the government for its proactive policies, timely payment of salaries, pension reforms, and consistent capacity building for workers. He also praised the inclusion of labour representatives in key decision-making roles.
The Head of Service, Dr. Elijah Evinemi, applauded the Governor’s continued commitment to easing the economic burden on civil servants and encouraged citizens to support these efforts.
Edited by Dada Ahmed.
