by Christiana Gokyo, Jos
Citizens of Plateau State have been called upon to adjust to the reality on ground and do only what is needed and reduce the reckless spending, because government is aware of the current challenges in the country.
The Deputy Governor of Plateau State, Hon. Mrs Josephine Piyo, made the call at the 21st Annual General Meeting of Nightingale Welfare Scheme Multi-purpose Cooperative Society Limited of the Jos University Teaching Hospital (JUTH) recently.
While assuring that, government would do everything within its reach to meet to yearnings and aspirations of citizens in the state, she also assured of the state government’s commitment towards improving the welfare of workers in the state.
According to her, the Caleb Mutfwang-led administration is committed to addressing needs of workers and providing conducive working environment.
She noted that, as a government they will continue to thrive towards improving the welfare of their workers and retirees in the state through regular and timely payment of salaries and pensions.
She stressed that “This would improve the working conditions in the state, which is one of the top in our priorities, and this is in realisation of the critical role workers play towards economic growth.
“That is why when we assumed office, on May 29, we met workers on strike due to lack of payment of salaries and other incentives, which this government immediately swung into action through various negotiations with the workers.”
The Deputy Governor commended the workers for suspending the strike action and prayed that they will never return to the days where workers will down tools for such a long period over nonpayment of their entitlements.
“We will forge a synergy with workers in the state to run a transparent and responsive government that will improve every sector of the economy for the benefit of the people of Plateau State,” he stated.
Hon. Piyo, who acknowledged the relevance of cooperative societies to the growth of the economy, urged workers in the state to “save for the rainy days, while still in service.”
Speaking earlier, the President Nightingale Welfare Scheme, Mrs Patricia Manasseh, commended the Deputy Governor for honouring their invitation, saying that the AGM avails members of the cooperative to rob minds together towards meeting its objectives.
She urged the members to remain resolute and work together, despite the challenges being faced in the country, adding that, “it would be something of the past” and commended management of JUTH for the smooth relationship they have enjoyed over the years.
The Chief Medical Director of JUTH, Dr Pokop Bupwatda, applauded the cooperative for their consistency and massive contribution and service to the hospital.
Dr. Bupwatda, who was represented by Dr Nanklig Lamu, stated that it takes discipline, dedication and prudence to be able achieve a lot over the years, and advised them to adjust to the realities on ground to be able to survive the depressing economy.
