The Cross River State Government says the N6.7 billion naira Paris Club refund recently released to the state by the
Federal Government would be used basically for payment of gratuity and salaries of public and civil servants in the state.
The state’s Head of service, Mr Ekpenyong Henshaw disclosed this while briefing newsmen in Calabar at the weekend.
According to the Head of Service, “our Governor Prof. Ben Ayade is desirous of paying all outstanding arrears owed civil servants by the previous administrations because he has their interest at heart.
“He is ready to do anything within his power to ensure their salaries and other lawful entitlements are paid as and when due.
“Consequently, the Governor has directed the Commissioner for Finance and Accountant General to immediately commence processes for the payment of gratuity to 2014 retirees as we round up payment to 2013 retirees.”
On the fate of those who were yet to receive their entitlement, particularly workers at the local government service, the Head of Service assured that everyone was being carried along.
He noted that “all duly earned gratuities, salaries and pensions by civil servant would be paid subsequently.”
He urged workers “not to relent in contributing their quota to the development of the state now that the government is more than ever ready to enthrone the needed reform agenda that will promote efficiency to enhance good governance.”
“Governor Ben Ayade places high premium on welfare of civil servants,” he said, adding that “the state government is committed in ensuring that it builds a workforce that can compete favourably with their contemporaries at the world arena.”
