BAUCHI — The Bauchi State chapter of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has called on the state government to introduce a clear and transparent framework for settling outstanding gratuities owed to retired civil servants.
The demand was made during the 2026 International Workers’ Day celebration held at the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa Stadium on Friday. The event was jointly organised by the NLC and the Trade Union Congress (TUC).
Retirees Deserve Dignity — NLC
Speaking at the event, the NLC State Chairperson, Dauda Shuaibu, emphasised that workers who dedicated decades of service to the state should not face hardship after retirement.
“Our senior citizens who served this state for over 35 years deserve to retire with dignity. We urge the government to implement a clear framework to clear the backlog of gratuities and bring relief to pensioners,” he stated.
Beyond gratuity concerns, the labour union urged Governor Bala Mohammed to fast-track the allocation of houses built under the Civil Servants Housing Scheme. While acknowledging the government’s effort in initiating the project, Shuaibu warned that continued delays could expose the structures to damage, especially with the rainy season approaching.
The union also requested logistical support, specifically the provision of two 18-seater buses, to improve its operations as a coordinating body representing over 42 affiliate unions across the state.
On workers’ welfare, the NLC pushed for the immediate reinstatement of the Leave Transport Grant (LTG), describing it as a statutory benefit that enhances employee wellbeing and boosts productivity. It further advocated for the revival of motorcycle and car loan schemes to ease transportation challenges faced by workers.
The labour body expressed serious concern over the failure to remit deductions to the Federal Mortgage Bank of Nigeria (FMBN), noting that the lapse has prevented workers from accessing housing loans.
“We are deeply concerned that contributions under the National Housing Scheme have not been remitted since August 2024. We demand an immediate refund and the resumption of regular remittances,” Shuaibu added.
Reaffirming its commitment to collaboration, the NLC stated that workers remain dedicated partners in the development of Bauchi State. However, it called for the extension of the full implementation of CONHESS and CONMESS salary structures to local government workers to eliminate existing disparities, similar to what has been done for state-level health workers.
he union also acknowledged the state government’s strides in approving the recruitment of 10,000 workers, implementing a contributory health insurance scheme, and introducing a new minimum pension.
Additionally, the NLC called for unresolved issues surrounding the Contributory Pension Scheme (CPS) to be addressed to ensure smooth and effective implementation. Shuaibu revealed that the Bauchi labour movement has reached approximately 30 percent completion in constructing a Labour House, while appreciating the government’s support so far.
In response, Governor Bala Mohammed, represented by his deputy, Muhammad Auwal Jatau, assured workers of the administration’s determination to clear all outstanding gratuities before the end of his tenure.
He emphasised that despite prevailing economic challenges, workers’ welfare remains a top priority for his government. According to him, reforms such as the introduction of a reliable payroll system have helped eliminate financial leakages, thereby ensuring consistent salary and pension payments.
The governor reiterated his commitment to ongoing civil service reforms, including merit-driven promotions, improved service delivery, and better working conditions. He noted that Bauchi is among the leading states to implement the ₦70,000 national minimum wage and continues to strengthen welfare policies for its workforce.
He further highlighted efforts in strategic recruitment and deployment of personnel to enhance efficiency across key sectors, alongside investments in agriculture and social welfare initiatives aimed at reducing poverty and improving livelihoods.
“We remain steadfast in our commitment to supporting our workforce and building a resilient, efficient, and responsive civil service,” he said.
Also speaking at the event, the Head of Civil Service in Bauchi State, Mohammed Sani Umar, commended the governor for sustaining the ₦70,000 minimum wage and introducing a ₦32,000 minimum pension for retirees.
He highlighted several innovative welfare policies, including designated work-free days for junior officers during the farming season, which he said have contributed significantly to both agricultural output and employee wellbeing.
Umar also pointed to the provision of subsidised agricultural inputs, including fertiliser loans for civil servants, as well as the distribution of palliatives during challenging periods such as Ramadan.
He praised the 2025 recruitment exercise for strengthening the workforce and creating job opportunities for young people, adding that extensive training programmes have been carried out for staff across all levels, including drivers and junior personnel.
According to him, ongoing reforms—such as the establishment of a credible nominal roll system, enforcement of merit-based promotions, implementation of the Service Charter, and strategic redeployment of officers—have improved transparency, accountability, and overall efficiency across Ministries, Departments, and Agencies.
He urged civil servants to reciprocate the government’s efforts through dedication, punctuality, discipline, and strict compliance with Public Service Rules.
“We must uphold the principles of integrity, transparency, and accountability in all our responsibilities,” he said.
Umar further stressed the critical role of public servants in tackling insecurity and poverty, noting that effective and people-focused service delivery is essential for improving livelihoods and strengthening public trust in governance.
He also acknowledged broader government interventions in infrastructure, business support, and youth and women empowerment, stating that these initiatives have contributed to economic growth, stability, and social development across the state.
