Uyo, Dec. 1, 2025 — Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State has approved the payment of a 13th-month salary for state workers, a gesture aimed at boosting morale and easing financial pressures during the festive season.
The announcement was made during a state executive council meeting in Uyo, where the governor explained that the bonus payment reflects his administration’s commitment to workers’ welfare. He noted that the initiative is designed to reward civil servants for their dedication throughout the year and to provide additional support as families prepare for end-of-year expenses.
Governor Eno emphasized that the 13th-month salary will be paid across all ministries, departments, and agencies of the state government. He described the measure as part of his broader “People-First Agenda,” which prioritizes welfare, productivity, and inclusive governance. “Our workers are the backbone of government service delivery. This bonus is a token of appreciation for their hard work and sacrifice,” he said.
The approval has been widely welcomed by labour unions and civil servants in the state. Leaders of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) in Akwa Ibom praised the governor’s decision, describing it as a morale booster that will help workers cope with rising living costs. They urged other state governments to emulate the initiative, particularly at a time when inflation and economic hardship are affecting households nationwide.
Observers say the move underscores the governor’s effort to strengthen relations with the workforce and prevent industrial unrest. Akwa Ibom has enjoyed relative stability in its civil service compared to other states, and analysts believe the 13th-month salary will further consolidate goodwill between the government and employees.
Economists, however, caution that while the bonus is a welcome relief, it also highlights the fiscal challenges facing states. Sustaining such payments annually will require prudent financial management, especially as states grapple with declining federal allocations and rising expenditure. Still, Governor Eno has assured that Akwa Ibom’s finances are stable enough to accommodate the initiative without jeopardizing other commitments.
For workers, the approval means an additional paycheck before the year ends, providing much-needed financial breathing space. For the government, it represents a strategic investment in loyalty and productivity, reinforcing the message that welfare remains central to governance in Akwa Ibom.
Sources: Punch, Vanguard, Tribune Online, Daily Post, The Nation
