The Jigawa State College of Education has commenced payment of the outstanding allowances of its casual workers.
The payment which has already started in earnest was at the instance of the state governor, Malam Umar Namadi’s approval of over N17 million for the purpose.
According to the Registrar of the College, Mr. Bala Isyaku, in a statement made available to newsmen on Monday, a copy from which Arewa PUNCH confirmed that the total sum of N17,028,000 has been paid to 203 successfully screened casual workers through online payment via UBA Bank.
Our correspondent reports that the payment, which commenced on Friday, October 22, 2024, followed a screening exercise conducted by the management staff under the supervision of the College Council members.
The Registrar explained via the statement that the exercise was necessary to verify the eligibility of the casual workers for the payment.
Meanwhile, the Provost of the college, Professor Nura Muhammad Ringim, has expressed gratitude to Namadi for his dedication at improving the education sector and prioritising workers’ welfare.
“The governor’s commitment to addressing these long-standing issues is a testament to his passion for transforming education and enhancing the well-being of workers in Jigawa State,” Prof Ringim remarked.
The statement read in parts, “Governor Namadi’s approval of the payment is a step towards alleviating the suffering of the casual workers, whose services were discontinued in 2023.
“The payment is expected to bring relief to the affected workers and their families.”
Meanwhile, Isyaku, who also commended the governor for his kind gesture, noted that the payment would go a long way in supporting the casual workers.
He urged the workers to continue to support the college in its efforts to provide quality education to its students.
“The payment of outstanding allowances to casual workers is part of Governor Namadi’s efforts to improve the welfare of workers in the state.
“The governor has been committed to addressing the challenges faced by workers in the state, including the payment of outstanding allowances and salaries.”
The Registrar noted further that the Jigawa State College of Education had been at the forefront of efforts to provide quality education to its students, and thus pointed out that, “The college has been working tirelessly to improve its infrastructure and provide a conducive learning environment for its students.”
As a result, he revealed that the college has been working closely with the state government to address the challenges faced by its workers.
He urged the 14 individuals who were part of the approved list but have yet to appear before the screening committee to visit the college for screening to receive their entitlements as approved by the state governor.