Governor State of Osun, Mr Gboyega Oyetola has said that December 2019 salaries of workers in the State were paid without the customary federal allocation despite the meager resources of the state.
Oyetola said that the government had taken the action in its strong determination to pay workers’ salaries before the end of the month as a way of fulfilling its pledge to prioritise their welfare.
Oyetola disclosed this during the inter-religious service organised to herald year 2020, held at the government secretariat, Abere Osogbo on Thursday.
Governor Oyetola lauded the workers in the state for their consistent support, efficiency, sacrifice and zeal towards the service and described them as pillars of support for his administration.
“I must say that I am blessed to have workers who willingly and conscientiously give me the three things that define the success of an administration: service, prayers and support.” Oyetola said.
The Governor acknowledged that the workers in the state are the engine room of the government to drive Osun to an economically sustainable status.
“Workers are the engine room of government and the link between the government and the people. You are our right arm in the delivery of our services to the people.” He acknowledged.
The Governor applauded the workers’ collective efforts geared towards delivering the State’s Development Agenda.
“Your collective and individual prayers and support were the groundwork for the victories and milestones we recorded last year. I recognise and appreciate the impact of your prayers and support on our victory at the court and on our efforts to commence the delivery of our Development Agenda in all the sectors. It is on this basis that I appreciate you all for standing firm and true in the interest of your State and your people.” He said.
The Governor who is committed to the welfare of workers has maintained that his administration would redouble efforts at further smoothening relationships between the government and workers.
“The welfare of workers is of paramount importance to our Administration. In line with our promise, we have been paying workers’ salaries in full as and when due since we came into government.” He stated.
The Governor further reassured workers in the state of his administration’s readiness to implement payment of minimum wage in the State.
“We have set up a labour-government committee to work out the modalities for paying the minimum wage. We’re committed to paying the new minimum wage.” Oyetola said.
He therefore urged workers in the state to continue to be dedicated in order to produce an all-round growth and development in the state.
“I urge you to continue to render quality services that will further put our State on a lane of distinction and provide adequate and equitable services and opportunities for our people as we strive to build on last year’s foundation this year.” He said.
He admonished them to work with the government in the strive to double up the state’s IGR as it is the only source for payment of the minimum wage.
The Head of Service Dr. Festus Oyebade, in his remarks said the Governor deserved all encomiums for his commitments to welfare of workers, as workers lauds the Governor. He assured the Governor of the continued support and cooperation of the entire workforce of the state towards his administration.
The event was graced by top government functionaries, permanent secretaries, workers, Christian and Islamic religious leaders, royal fathers in the State among others.
