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Shortfalls: Yobe Government explains how the Economic Recession affects Workers Salary

Published

4 years ago

August 5, 2021

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Shortfalls: Yobe government explains how the economic recession affects workers salary

The Yobe state government on Thursday said the global economic downturn or economic recession in the wake of the coronavirus pandemic has been the reasons for shortfalls in the payment of the state workers salaries in recent time urging workers to bare with the government as this is a passing situation which all had to bare in the time.

Mr. Abdullahi Bego, Commissioner for Home Affairs, Information, and Culture explained this during a press briefing at the NUJ house in Damaturu where he spoke to dust mention already escalating among workers in the state.

The Commissioner reminded workers of the tremendous achievements made by the Buni led administration in order to make Yobe state a place for all.

“These revenue shortfalls, as you all know, have begun to affect everything – from the capacity of the government to provide key social services to the people to the fare you pay at the motor park. But it is – and has always been – the basic responsibility of government to provide basic social services to the people, including water supply, medicines and drugs in hospitals, clinics, and health centres, feeding for students in schools and general support for educational development, agric input to farmers, and the roads that make commerce and commuting easier. These are facts about which we all agree.

“When the economic and fiscal situation makes the delivery of these basic services difficult or hard to achieve, the government has to take every measure necessary to continue to perform its basic functions.

“One of the immediate measures the government took was to cut in half the amount of money it pays to Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs) to cover their running costs. The government took other measures as well to cut unnecessary spending and channel resources to where they are most needed and where they would be most effective. ” Bego said

According to him, this is the background that also informed the decision of the state government to review the salaries of workers at the local government level.

“Given the nature and scale of the situation at hand, the first and natural impulse would be to say ‘let’s retrench some of the workers or downsize the workforce to be able to handle the fat salary bill. But the administration of His Excellency Governor Mai Mala Buni has refused to contemplate that idea. The governor does not want that workers lose their jobs because of the prevailing economic hardship.

“As a consequence, the state government set up a committee that met at different levels to deliberate on the issue and find better alternatives. The committee travelled to places far and wide to understudy how they conduct their salary administrations. Critical stakeholders also met both in Damaturu and across the 17 local government areas to discuss and find a way out. The Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs produced and circulated a multi-point discursive material that guided the discussion at all the concerned fora.

“These committees have members drawn from the labour unions, including the state chapters of the National Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE), the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT), and the Medical and Health Workers Union (MHWUN).

“Following the meeting of stakeholders at the local government level, each local government council wrote back to the state government to relate its thoughts and opinions about the issue. One local government wrote to say “the new reforms as articulated in the talking points circulated by the Ministry of Local Government and Chieftaincy Affairs were fully endorsed and the resolution of the state government not to embark on staff retrenchment or downsizing in spite of the (current) financial downturn was particularly applauded”. All the 17 local government area stakeholders have endorsed the decision. ” The commissioner added.

Speaking on the recommendation of the committee, Mr. Abdullahi Bego said “during their study visit to neighbouring and other states across the country, the committee found that in some states, local government salaries are paid according to the percentage of funds received from federation account allocations. So, there is no fixed amount that a worker in a local government receives. What he or she receives was totally dependent on the specific amount of money that accrued to the state each month. So, a worker sees their salaries up a bit one month or go down a notch the next month.

“In some other states, salaries for local governments are administered according to clusters. In states with this arrangement, local government employees are ‘clustered’ into three groups, with one cluster receiving something like N8500 as the minimum take-home pay and as much as N18000 for workers in another cluster – in the same state.

” Given these findings and the considerations thereof, the committee recommended to the state government a pegging of the minimum wage of local government employees in Yobe State to N20, 160.00 across all grade levels.
So, rather than a consideration to downsize, the government opted to peg the minimum wage at N20, 160.00. And it bears repeating that the recommendation upon which this decision was made was put together with the full knowledge and participation of the relevant workers’ unions.” He explained.

As a government, the commissioner said
Governor Mai Mala Buni is passionate about workers – and about their indispensable role in bringing about socio-economic development in the state. “This is why some people have quoted him as saying that the state government would pay the N30, 000 minimum wage. Well, that was absolutely true.

“But what is also true is that governance is a dynamic enterprise. The government has to respond to and address various situations affecting the public good as they occur. Governor Buni has fulfilled the promise of the minimum wage. Yobe has a record of a prompt and unfailing salary payments regime. It is the economic situation that necessitated taking the measures I had earlier outlined – and these are facts that everyone can relate to.

“Workers in the employment of the Yobe State Government at both the state and the local government level can rest assured that the Buni administration, subject to the resources at the disposal of the state government, would continue to do everything necessary to address and improve their welfare and provide the atmosphere that they need to continue to contribute to the socio-economic development of the state.” Bego said

Related Topics:Shortfalls: Yobe Government explains how the Economic Recession affects Workers Salary

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VP SHETTIMA AT FIDAU PRAYER FOR BUHARI

Published

2 days ago

July 18, 2025

Ochuwa Ibrahim

VP SHETTIMA AT FIDAU PRAYER FOR BUHARI:

Late ex-President Pursued Justice With Sincerity

** Says Tinubu-led FG will continue to protect dignity of the Buhari family, Katsina people

By: Our Reporter

The Vice President, Senator Kashim Shettima, has said the late former President Muhammadu Buhari pursued justice with the utmost sincerity.

And in death, according to Senator Shettima, the late Buhari has also proved to the world that he was, indeed, one of the greatest sons of Africa.

The Vice President stated this on Thursday during the 3rd day prayers (Fidau) offered for the repose of the soul of the former Nigerian leader, at his residence in Daura, Katsina State.

“Ibn Khaldun reminds us that the goal of civilisation is the attainment of justice. Justice is the bone that holds human society together. It was justice, as he understood it, that President Muhammadu Buhari pursued – often misunderstood, but always with sincerity.

“When you are in power, your friends know you; when you are out of power, you know your friends. In death, President Muhammadu Buhari has proved to the world that he is, indeed, the greatest son of Africa. May Allah grant his soul eternal rest and reward him with Aljannah. May Allah forgive his shortcomings,” he prayed.

On behalf of his boss, President Bola Tinubu, VP Shettima expressed gratitude to Governor Dikko Radda of Katsina State for the reception and kind gesture accorded to the Federal Government delegation throughout their stay in the state.

“We have been together with the governor right from London to Nigeria. He gave a warm reception and all the necessary support,” he said, adding that President Tinubu is personally pained by the loss of his friend, brother and political soulmate.

The VP assured that the Federal Government, under the leadership of President Tinubu, “will continue to protect the image and dignity of Buhari’s family and the entire people of Katsina State.”

He revealed that he will proceed to Abuja with the family of the late former President to attend a Special Valedictory Federal Executive Council (FEC) in honour of the deceased.

Earlier, the governor of Katsina State, Malam Dikko Radda, said the deceased rendered selfless service to the nation, maintaining that nobody can dispute the fact that he was an honest and just person.

He thanked President Tinubu and Vice President Shettima for honouring the remains of late President Buhari, saying, “We, the people of Katsina State, don’t have a word to thank the Federal Republic of Nigeria.

“We appreciate President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, who has shown compassion, respect for the people of Katsina State and the nation entirely. Tinubu has allowed 25 members of his cabinet, under the leadership of Vice President Shettima, to be in Katsina State. The 25 Ministers supported us at this trying moment, and we also thank the President for declaring a public holiday on the day Buhari was laid to rest,” Governor Radda added.

Also, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, said the late Buhari has an important place in the national history of Nigeria, appealing to all Nigerians to continue to pray for the repose of the soul of the former President, as reminded by Islamic clerics.

“We want to thank all of you on behalf of the 25 ministers, as directed by Mr President, for finding time to offer prayers for our President and also participate in this national assignment. Indeed, former President Buhari belongs to Daura, Katsina, Nigeria, and the world,” the minister said.

Earlier, the prayer session was opened by the former Minister of Communication and Digital Economy, Prof. Ali Pantami, who emphasised the need for constant prayers for all the departed souls, including late President Buhari.

Pantami further observed that prayer for the departed soul should not be restricted to a number of days.

Similarly, the Minister of State Agriculture, Senator Aliyu Abudullahi, on behalf of the members of the Federal Executive Council (FEC), prayed Almighty Allah to cover the grave of Buhari with mercy and admit him into Aljannah.

Islamic scholars who offered prayer include Prof. Ibrahim Makari of the Abuja National Mosque; Sheikh Yahaya Jingir, Bishop of Katsina; Mamman Musa; Khalifa Mohammad Nasir; and Malam Hassan Daura, among others.

Other dignitaries present at the prayer session are former Vice President Namadi Sambo; Governor Babagana Zulum of Borno State; former Secretary to Government of the Federation, Ambassador Babagana Kingibe; former Minister of Justice, Abubakar Malami (SAN); Ambassador Adamu Daura; former Katsina State Governor, Aminu Masari; former Zamfara State Governor, Senator Abdulaziz Yar’adu, and former National Security Adviser, Babagana Monguno.

Others are former Director-General, National Intelligence Agency (NIA), Ahmed Rufai; Business Mogul, Mohammed Indimi; Buhari’s nephew, Mamman Daura, former FCT Minister, Muhammad Bello, the Emirs of Katsina, Daura and Bade; the Sultan of Maradi from the Niger Republic, and thousands of sympathisers from various walks of life.

VP SHETTIMA AT FIDAU PRAYER FOR BUHARI

National News

Vice President Shettima Joins President Tinubu, African Leaders for Burial of Former President Buhari in Daura

Published

4 days ago

July 16, 2025

Ochuwa Ibrahim

Vice President Shettima Joins President Tinubu, African Leaders for Burial of Former President Buhari in Daura

By: Our Reporter

Vice President Kashim Shettima on Tuesday joined President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and other African leaders in Daura, Katsina State, for the burial of former President Muhammadu Buhari, who passed away on Sunday, 13 July 2025, in a London hospital.

Earlier in the day, President Tinubu received the remains of the former President at the Umaru Musa Yar’Adua International Airport in Katsina, where he inspected a military guard of honour before the Nigerian Air Force jet conveying the casket arrived at 1:51 p.m.

The casket, draped in the Nigerian flag, was conveyed by a senior military pallbearer team led by Major General Mike Alechenu, and wheeled in a solemn procession to the hymn “God Be With You Till We Meet Again,” flanked by a full military guard of honour.

Vice President Shettima had accompanied the body of the late President from London, alongside the Chief of Staff to the President, Rt. Hon. Femi Gbajabiamila, the late President’s widow, Hajiya Aisha Buhari, and close family members.

Upon arrival in Daura, the remains of President Buhari were received by a large crowd of mourners chanting praises of Allah and offering prayers for his soul. The body was later interred at his private residence in a ceremony attended by a cross-section of dignitaries and ordinary citizens alike.

President Tinubu and Vice President Shettima were joined at the burial by former Vice President Yemi Osinbajo, President Umaro Sissoco Embaló of Guinea-Bissau, Prime Minister of Niger Republic Ali Lamine Zeine, and former President of Niger Issoufou Mahamadou. Also in attendance were governors, ministers, service chiefs, former governors, captains of industry, Islamic clerics, and representatives from across the continent, including an envoy of the President of Chad.

Vice President Shettima Joins President Tinubu, African Leaders for Burial of Former President Buhari in Daura

National News

Accion MfB Launches AccionMonie App to Transform Digital Banking in Nigeria

Published

5 days ago

July 15, 2025

Ochuwa Ibrahim

Accion MfB Launches AccionMonie App to Transform Digital Banking in Nigeria

By: Michael Michael

Nigeria’s leading microfinance institution, Accion Microfinance Bank (MfB) has launched AccionMonie, a transformative digital financial services platform designed to empower individuals, micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) and low-income households.

A statement on Tuesday said through AccionMonie, the microfinance bank is expanding digital capabilities for financial
access and empowerment across the spectrum of underserved individuals and businesses. The user-friendly platform offers instant access to essential services, including loans, savings, capital,
and other forms of support.

It started that the launch of AccionMonie is a key part of the bank’s “Always there to lend you a hand” campaign, which reinforces its long-standing commitment to small business growth and the
welfare of low-income households. The campaign positions Accion MFB not just as a financial provider but as a trusted partner in its customers’ journey towards business success and economic empowerment.

In Nigeria, micro, small and medium enterprises (MSMEs) are one of the key growth drivers of the economy. Estimated at about 37 million, MSMEs currently account for 86 per cent of employment and 48 per cent of Gross Domestic Product (GDP).

However, despite their strong
potential, the MSMEs continue to be impacted by existential challenges, notably access to capital and finance, infrastructure and an enabling business environment.

Chief Executive Officer (CEO) of Accion MfB, Taiwo Joda, described the launch of
AccionMonie as an important milestone and a testament to the bank’s culture of innovation; one that ensures its products and offerings continue to reflect the evolving needs of its customers.

He said: “At Accion Microfinance Bank, we believe in the potential of every MSME to drive inclusive economic growth. That is why we are committed to empowering them with the financial support they need to grow, innovate, and make a lasting impact in their communities and beyond.”

On his part, the Chief Commercial Officer (CCO) of the bank, Stephen Olalere, stated that AccionMonie and the combination of the bank’s extensive network of over 74 branches in 12 states will address the persistent challenge of limited access to financial services faced by many small businesses in Nigeria. He added that the platform’s user-friendly features will simplify payments and offer much-needed support for both businesses and individuals.

The Chief Digital Officer of the bank,
Paul Ehiagbonare, said this is a bold move towards digital leadership, maturity and excellence. He stated that: “For us, AccionMonie is a reflection of the much needed customer empowerment through digital tools and technologies. We are not only providing access to finance but standing beside our customers as partners, supporting their ambitions when others
may not and doing so timely and more efficiently. Our goal is to be a reliable ally on their journey toward growth, stability, and long-term success.”

He stated that AccionMonie offers a range of customer-focused features designed to promote financial inclusion and empower users. One of its unique offerings is Save2Loan, which allows customers
to save between N50,000 and N250,000 over 90 days and qualify for a loan worth twice their savings. He noted that this feature is expected to encourage a stronger culture of saving while expanding access to credit.

He explained that customers can also fund their AccionMonie accounts directly using any debit card, which is an easy, seamless process that eliminates the need for long queues at banking halls. Another key
feature is the targeted saving option and locked savings, which helps users plan and save for long-term goals such as tuition, rent, or investment while earning competitive interest.

He noted that customers can also earn for referring others, adding that account management features include on demand
bank statement, account upgrade features, secure access, transfer limit management amongst others.

The AccionMonie app is now available for download on the Apple App Store, Google Play Store, or directly via this link: https://onelink.to/57z27p.

Accion Microfinance Bank has been in operation for over 16 years and is a pioneer in Nigeria’s microfinance sector, providing innovative financial solutions. The bank’s long history of supporting entrepreneurs and small businesses has greatly contributed to economic growth and
development.

The bank has solid shareholder investments from three major banks – Ecobank, Zenith Bank and Citi Bank – as well as International Finance Corporation, a World Bank member, and Accion Investments, all of which contribute to its strong financial base and allow it to serve an ever-increasing number of customers.

Accion MfB Launches AccionMonie App to Transform Digital Banking in Nigeria