By Ogenyi Ogenyi, Uyo
Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom has approved the release of an additional N1.6 billion for the payment of arrears of gratuities to retired teachers and Local Government workers in the state.
This decision was announced in a statement from the Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Mr. Ekerete Udoh, which was made available to newsmen in Uyo yesterday.
The statement highlighted that this action aligns with Governor Eno’s promise to the State Organized Labor during their one-day national protest march, where he pledged to consistently allocate funds for the ongoing payment of gratuities.
It was noted that the Governor had previously allocated N3 billion for the same purpose, bringing the total amount released for this purpose to N4.6 billion in the last five months.
Recall that the Governor had stated a fortnight ago that his administration had disbursed N3 billion for gratuity payments, particularly to retired primary school teachers, over the past four months. He emphasized that this step was necessary to address the backlog of gratuities owed to these educators, many of whom had passed away without receiving their retirement benefits after dedicating their services to the state and nation.
“We salute you for your sacrifice, passion, and patience in molding our future leaders. That’s the reason we have taken your welfare and well-being very seriously. To date, we have released over N3 billion to pay gratuities, especially to retired primary school teachers.
“As teachers, you are the catalysts in ensuring the realization of this laudable vision. We salute you as you mark World Teachers’ Day today,” the release concluded.
