BY CHUWANG DUNGS
The Chairman Taraba State Advisory Committee on Local Government Autonomy, Abel Diah, has assured teachers and local government health workers of governor Agbu Kefas resolve to ensure prompt payment of their monthly salaries.
Diah said this during an interactive session between the advisory committee and leaders of local government workers unions on Wednesday in Jalingo, the state capital.
He also used the occasion to announce that the welfare of traditional rulers will also be a top priority.
“While implementing the autonomy, no local government chairman will be allowed to execute any project without paying teachers, health workers and our traditional rulers. This is our recommendation and I am assuring you under governor Agbu Kefas you should not exhibit any fear.” He assured them.
Mr Diah noted that union leaders have a key role to play to ensure the smooth implementation of the autonomy, stressing that the idea of local government autonomy goes beyond just changing administrative structures.
“You are the voices of the people, the champions of progress, and the guardians of our collective aspirations. We must come together in a spirit of unity and collaboration to fully understand the implications of this historic judgement and to chart a way forward that truly benefits the people of Taraba State.
“The idea of Local Government Autonomy goes beyond just changing administrative structures; it represents a significant transformation in how we govern, provide public services, and engage with our communities.” The committee added.
“Local governments can generate revenue, manage budgets, and prioritise investments based on their communities’ unique needs.
“Other areas the autonomy will have significant implications on are, service delivery, community engagement, accountability and transparency, among others.” He stated.
Speaking on behalf of the state chapter of the Nigerian Union of Local Government Employee, (NULGE), the State President of the union, Baji Wakili Damuga, said for an effective local government system to be achieved in the state, there must be an upward review of payments made to the Local Government Service Commission.
“Looking at current economic realities, an upward review of payments to the Local Government Service Commission should be considered. The present rate of 1% is grossly inadequate. This review should take account of inflation, cost of living and other commitments of the commission, ensuring that the funds made available are adequately reviewed upwardly”. NULGE submitted.
Review of gratuity and pension templates, NULGE believed, has become necessary, stating that, “the current templates use for calculating gratuity and pension should be reviewed upward to reflect modern standards and best practices.
This, according to him, “will ensure that retired civil servants receive fair and adequate compensation for the service rendered during their active service years.”
