Anambra State government has expressed a commitment toward enhancing the welfare of retired Permanent Secretaries in the state.

Dr Nkem Okeke, Anambra State deputy governor, on behalf the governor made this known while receiving members of the Association of Retired Permanent Secretaries at Government House, Awka.

The delegation, which was led by Alex Chukwurah, a former secretary to the state government, was on a solidarity visit to deliberate on issues affecting them, part of which was the need to increase their remuneration.

The deputy governor commended their contributions to governance, saying that for one to reach the post of permanent secretary, he or she must have performed well in service.

He agreed that increase in their remuneration would help to improve their standard of living, stressing that the welfare of the state retirees was one paramount in the agenda of the Obiano administration.

“Improving the remuneration is part of the issues handled by the Salaries Review Committee of which I am chairman.

“A lack of funds from federal allocation is one of the problems the state is facing as well as the issue of IGR, as most Anambra citizens are not paying their taxes as and when due.

“With increased IGR, Government will continue to do well in all sectors of development,” Okeke added.

Chukwurah, the leader of the delegation, commended the state-wide achievements attained by the present administration, saying that workers were promptly paid their salaries.

“Obiano’s government is the best we have seen so far,’’ he added.

While calling for a review of their remuneration, he explained that their salaries were no longer adequate, especially with the recent economic recession.

“We are calling on the listening Governor, one that has the interest of the retirees and the masses at heart, to listen to our plight.’’

Chukwurah pointed out the need to re-engage some of their members as consultants to government.

He noted that the younger ones among them, were still capable; their vast knowledge in governance, could still contribute effectively to the development of the state.

In a vote of thanks, Dike Ndulue, a member of the group thanked the deputy governor for showing concern to their plight.

On behalf of the group, I pledge our unalloyed support to the present administration,’’ Ndulue said.

– June 22, 2018 @ 13:11 GMT |