Ogun Government To Set Up Staff Loans Board For Workers

By ABIODUN JIMOH, ABEOKUTA

Ogun State Government has revealed plan to set up Staff Loans Board that will amongst others facilitate access to loans from banks at very concessionary interest rates and terms.

The state Governor, Prince Dapo Abiodun, stated this in his address to commemorate the 2020 International Workers’ Day held On Friday, May 1st, 2020.

In his statewide broadcast, governor Abiodun stressed that for obvious reasons, this year workers’ day became peculiar and different from many in the past because they were unable to have the grand commemoration in honour of workers.

“This is because of the measures in place, including physical distancing as necessitated by the prevailing situation across the globe, in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic, which is commonly called COVID-19.

“For example, many of our public servants and those in the private sector have had to work from home. In all these, we must also salute the courage and professionalism of our workers, especially our healthcare workers and other frontline officers, who have continued to put their lives on the line to protect the rest of us.

“Let me say in a loud voice that, on behalf of the Government and entire people of Ogun State, I specially congratulate all the workers of our dear state, in particular, and Nigeria in general, under the two Labour Houses, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) on the commemoration of yet another workers’ day.

“I acknowledge the level of commitment, cooperation and understanding that you have continued to demonstrate, particularly, in the last one year of our administration. You have shown that there are many successes we can achieve together in the development of our dear state.

“As an administration, we have continued to demonstrate our commitment to the welfare of our workers, because they are the nerve centre for the policy formulation and successful implementation of government’s programmes and projects.

“It is noteworthy that Ogun State remains one of the few states that completed the negotiation for the implementation of the minimum wage without rancour, amongst other initiatives.

“We have put in place regular and prompt payment of salaries before the end of every month; improved work environment by regular release of running cost to our Ministries, Departments and Agencies (MDAs) and our public schools for administrative efficiency and effectiveness, and many others,” he expressed.

Abiodun explained further by reassuring all workers and the entire people of the state that his administration would not reneges on its promises nor will we willfully default in same.

“The reality of our present situation brings into factual understanding of the prayers of our fathers, ‘May God not allow the unplanned thwart our lofty plans.’ As they say ‘man proposes, God disposes.’

“This administration will make best endeavours given the prevailing circumstance to deliver on its promises. We appreciate your support, cooperation and prayers. All we ask is that you continue to support, cooperate and pray for us at all times.

“In the meantime, there will be gradual resumption of work in various government offices for certain categories of public servants from Monday, 4th May, 2020. Details will be provided in subsequent communication and circular from the Head of Service. Together, we will build Ogun State of our collective dreams.

“Residents are enjoined not hesitate to report any case of anyone developing symptoms of the virus in your neighbourhood. Together we shall defeat Corona virus,” Abiodun concluded.