Forget fruitcake and carols; the hottest Christmas treat in Rivers State this year is Governor Fubara’s N100,000 Christmas bonus for every civil servant!
Governor Siminalayi Fubara of Rivers State has ignited Christmas cheer by showering civil servants with a generous N100,000 Christmas bonus, a first in recent memory and more than triple the national minimum wage.
This unprecedented gift approved by the governor, which aims to brighten the festive season for state employees, has sparked joyous eruptions across the state, warming the hearts of the people as workers express jubilation for this unexpected windfall.
Workers who haven’t seen a Christmas bonus in years, let alone one this hefty, are overjoyed, praising the governor’s empathy and commitment to low-income earners.
Alex Agwanwo, the state chairman of the Nigerian Labour Congress, in reaction to the approval given on Tuesday for “immediate implementation” called it a “welcomed development” and a stark contrast to “eight years of being forgotten.” He has pledged the unwavering support of workers, declaring, “We will stand by him!”
This festive feast isn’t just about merrymaking; it’s a testament to Fubara’s dedication to his people. A former Accountant General himself, he understands the financial struggles of low-income earners. His 2024 budget proposal already promised to fill the civil service gap and improve employee well-being, and this bonus adds another layer of concrete action to his promises.
While some might see this as mere political maneuvering, the genuine jubilation among workers speaks volumes. The bonus isn’t just a financial boost; it’s a recognition of their hard work and a signal that the state leadership sees and values them. This act of generosity has breathed new life into the festive spirit, painting Rivers State with a vibrant hue of appreciation and optimism.