Joining Kaduna workers at Murtala Mohammed Square for the 2025 International Workers’ Day, Governor Uba Sani reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to workers’ welfare.
He emphasised this dedication through the implementation of a N72,000 minimum wage despite inherited debts and economic challenges.
Dressed in vibrant labour attire alongside his deputy, Dr. Hadiza Balarabe, and other top officials, Governor Sani stated, “Our administration has blazed the trail by implementing the N72,000 minimum wage for all state workers. We made this sacrifice because we believe every worker deserves to live in dignity.”
He also highlighted initiatives such as the Subsidised Transportation Scheme in collaboration with organised labour, the deployment of 100 CNG buses, and the Kaduna Bus Rapid Transit (KBRT) System launched in March 2025.
Additionally, the groundbreaking for the Southern Terminal and the distribution of 4,000 motorcycles in February 2025 were cited as further efforts to support workers.
“The long-standing denial of workers’ promotion that affected over 80% of our workforce has been addressed. All deserving staff will now be recognised and promoted accordingly.
“Earlier this year, we sponsored labour leaders and officials for advanced training in Italy on industrial harmony and collective bargaining. Furthermore, we have approved comprehensive training for union leaders in collaboration with the Michael Imoudu National Institute for Labour Studies.
“Funds previously withheld from the contributory Teachers’ Welfare Fund have been fully restored. We have repositioned this scheme to deliver meaningful economic empowerment to our teachers.
“While workers build the economy, we are obliged to ensure their safety. I am happy to report a significant decline in banditry, kidnapping, and terrorism across Kaduna State. This is attributable to the effective implementation of the Kaduna Peace Model – a non-kinetic approach jointly facilitated by the Kaduna State Government, the Office of the National Security Adviser (NSA) and Security Agencies,” Governor Sani said.
The Governor also noted that, his administration had approved the immediate recruitment of 1,800 health workers to strengthen the state’s primary healthcare system as well as employment of 3,000 teachers to restore capacity in the public schools decimated by mass dismissals by the previous administration.
“In a bid to retain intellectual capital, we approved five additional years of service from 35 to 40 years, bringing the retirement age to 65 years for the academic staff of state-owned tertiary institutions. The institutions include the Kaduna State University (KASU), Nuhu Bamalli Polytechnic Zaria, College of Education, Gidan Waya, and the Schools of Nursing and Midwifery.”
In the area of pension and gratuity, Governor Sani said, “upliftment of the living conditions of pensioners is one of the top priorities of our administration. In April 2025, we released the sum of N3.8 billion to settle outstanding gratuity, death benefits, and accrued rights in the Contributory Pension Scheme.
“Since the inception of our administration, we have paid cumulatively the sum of N10.2 billion in gratuity, death benefits, and accrued rights in the Contributory Pension Scheme. This feat is unprecedented in the history of Kaduna State. We remain committed to ensuring that those who have served Kaduna State retire and live with respect.
In his speech, the Kaduna State Council Chairman of Trade Union Congress (TUC), Abdullahi Alhassan Danfulani commended Governor Uba Sani for approving the release of N500million into the workers Micro-credit Scheme, appealing to the Governor to approve release of additional sum of N500million into the scheme.
According to him. “On behalf of the teaming civil servants in the state, I wish to extend our gratitude to our dear Governor for approving the resuscitation of the Micro-credit Scheme in the State Civil Service and also the release of the sum of N500,000,000.00 (Five Hundred Million Naira Only) to over five hundred (500) civil servants.
“But like Oliver Twist, who always asks for more, we are appealing to His Excellency to approve the release of additional N500,000,000.00 (Five Hundred Million Naira Only) into the Scheme in order to accommodate more workers in view of the high demand and also expand the revolving capital of the Scheme.
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“We stand here today recognising the strides made within our state, and it is only fitting that we acknowledge the efforts of the Kaduna State Government in addressing critical concerns that directly impact our lives and livelihoods. We have witnessed and commend the commitment of the government in strengthening the security landscape of our dear state.
“The peace and safety of our communities are paramount, and we acknowledge the positive steps taken to ensure a more secure environment for all workers and citizens.
“Furthermore, we extend our sincere appreciation for the consistent payment of salaries as due. This fundamental commitment provides stability and dignity to the workforce, allowing us to focus on our duties and contribute meaningfully to the progress of Kaduna State.
“We recognise that this reliability is crucial for the well-being of our families and the overall economic health of our state.
“In a particularly significant development for our colleagues, we wholeheartedly applaud His Excellency for the inclusion of the Kaduna State Water Corporation workers on the state government’s staff payroll.
“This decision is a testament to the recognition of their essential services and ensures their rightful place within the state’s workforce. It brings a sense of security and belonging, empowering them to continue their crucial work of providing this vital resource to our communities,” the TUC chairman said.
