One of the key measures is the provision of a cash support of N10,000 to every public sector worker in the state. This financial aid will commence this month and continue until a new minimum wage is introduced, aiming to help workers cope with the economic shocks arising from the subsidy removal.
Additionally, the governor has authorized the payment of new hazard and skipping allowances, as well as implementing 100% CONMESS for consultants and medical doctors under the government’s payroll. State-employed nurses will also benefit from an improved allowances system. These measures are geared towards reducing attrition in the health sector, attracting and retaining medical professionals and specialists, and ultimately enhancing healthcare services for the people of the state.
To support vulnerable households during these challenging times, the government will soon activate occasional food distributions. This effort will be nonpartisan and carefully coordinated with the assistance of respected stakeholders, including traditional rulers, religious bodies, market leaders, trade unionists, and community-based organizations, to ensure fair and effective distribution.
Furthermore, the Kwara State Social Investment Programme (KWASSIP) is set to activate conditional support amounting to N500 million for petty traders and MSMEs in the state. This measure aims to bolster farming outputs and food security in the region.
In addition to the financial measures, the governor has directed the extension of free bus rides for students of tertiary institutions in the state. The civil service leadership has also been advised to continue a staggered work schedule, limited to three days a week, to reduce transportation expenses for workers.
Governor AbdulRazaq emphasized that these interventions reflect the state’s empathy and commitment to deploying available resources to support its people during this challenging period. Furthermore, the government will establish a committee to engage with marketers to curb extortionist practices, such as arbitrary price fixing of food items, which impose hardships on the population.
The governor expressed solidarity with His Excellency President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for his dedication to sustainable economic reforms and the well-being of Nigerians. He believes that the current discomforts are akin to the pains preceding the joyful birth of a child. Through these initiatives, the government aims to provide relief and support to the people of Kwara State in these extraordinary times.
