The Bauchi State Executive Council has approved the implementation of a Contributory Pension Scheme aimed at resolving ongoing pension and gratuity challenges faced by civil servants. The Head of Civil Service, Yahuza Ningi, announced this decision following a recent council meeting. Under this scheme, employees will contribute 8% of their earnings, with credible pension administrators set to manage the funds, marking a significant step toward securing the retirement benefits of state workers.
Ningi also provided an update on the ongoing negotiations for implementing the new minimum wage for state employees, stating that talks are in an advanced stage. He reassured workers of the government’s commitment to their welfare, indicating that concrete measures are being put in place to ensure fair compensation.
In a related development, the council approved the recruitment of 2,000 youths from Bauchi State into the BAROTA Corps. This initiative, aimed at tackling youth unemployment, is expected to enhance law enforcement on roads and support various government activities, contributing to the overall maintenance of order in the state.
Additionally, the Bauchi State Executive Council has decided to fence the Sumu Wildlife Park in Ganjuwa Local Government Area to prevent encroachment and protect the game reserve. The Commissioner for Culture and Tourism, Abdul Hassan, shared this directive, highlighting the government’s focus on preserving the state’s natural heritage.
On the front of education and skill development, the Commissioner for Solid Mineral and Natural Resources, Mallam Maiwada Bello, disclosed that the council has allocated over N6 billion for constructing a permanent site for the Bauchi State Oil and Gas Academy in Alkaleri Local Government Area. This investment aims to bolster the state’s capacity in the oil and gas sector, providing specialized training to boost local expertise.
Furthermore, the council approved the renaming of the Ministry of National Resources to the Ministry of Natural Resources Development. Bello emphasized that this change reflects a renewed commitment to exploring and developing Bauchi’s rich deposits of natural resources and solid minerals, positioning the state for economic growth driven by resource extraction and utilization.
