The Akwa Ibom State Government has paid over ₦100 billion out of ₦111 billion in gratuity liabilities inherited by Governor Umo Eno's administration. This disclosure was made during the ninth ministerial press briefing organised by the Ministry of Information at Government House, Uyo. The briefing highlighted the government's efforts to improve workers' welfare and industrial relations in the state.
The Commissioner for Labour and Manpower Planning, Hon. Ikoedem Ekong, revealed that the government has implemented an ₦80,000 minimum wage, introduced a 13th-month salary known as "Eno-mber," and settled outstanding 7.5 percent contributory pension deductions for affected workers. These measures aim to enhance the welfare of workers in the state.
Ekong also disclosed that the ministry facilitated the payment of ₦150 million in gratuities and entitlements to former workers of Akwa Palm Limited, which had been shut for over seven years. Additionally, workers of St. Gabriel Coconut Company received ₦180 million in six months' salary arrears, with Governor Eno approving an additional two months' arrears.
The government has also introduced health insurance for public servants, leave grants for civil servants in 2026, teachers' wardrobe allowances, training and retraining programs, and provided modern working tools. Eligible retirees who left service between 2007 and 2011 now receive ₦20,000 monthly, up from ₦15,000, while those who retired before November 1, 2024, receive ₦27,000 monthly.
On salary adjustments, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Labour Matters, Rt. Hon. Udo Kieran, stated that workers in the education and health sectors have benefited from approved increases. Doctors received a 40 percent salary increase, while other medical personnel received a 30 percent increase. The government also resolved a 12-year dispute over the Domestic Servants Allowance.
The Special Adviser to the Governor on Political and Social Reorientation, Barr. Kufre Udosen, reported that the Bureau of Political and Social Reorientation has extended grassroots enlightenment campaigns to all 31 local government areas. The campaigns promote civic awareness, peaceful coexistence, and informed political participation.
The government has also strengthened grassroots mobilisation and public feedback through engagements across about 22 local government areas. An information and communications technology-based registration system has been introduced to identify political support groups individually, improve coordination, and promote transparency in their activities.
Key points
- - The Akwa Ibom State Government has paid over ₦100 billion in gratuity liabilities. - The government has implemented an ₦80,000 minimum wage and introduced a 13th-month salary. - The government has introduced various welfare measures, including health insurance and leave grants for civil servants.
