Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf has signed a total sum of N719,755,417,663 fiscal appropriation for 2025 into law.

The total budget size is composed N262, 670,660,562.68 recurrent expenditure representing 36 per cent and N457,804,757,100.32 capital expenditure which stands at 64 per cent of the total sum.

Recall that Gov. Yusuf, on December 8, 2024 presented a proposed budget size of N549, 160,417,663 before the state assembly. The appropriation has however increased by over N170 billion.

Tagged budget of Hope, Capital Development and Economic Growth, the government places priority attention to Education, Health, and Infrastructure among other sectors in next year’s budget.

As the nation steps into the year 2025, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has extended warm New Year greetings to every worker and citizen across the country. In a heartfelt message, NLC President Comrade Joe Ajaero urged President Bola Ahmed Tinubu to withdraw the current Tax Reform Bill before the National Assembly, emphasizing the need for inclusive dialogue and stakeholder participation.

Comrade Ajaero highlighted the challenges of survival faced by Nigerians and called for collective resolve to drive the nation out of underdevelopment. “No external power will deliver us from the scourge of economic hardship and stagnation. It is only through our collective effort and determination that we can propel our nation forward,” he stated.

The NLC President emphasized the importance of governance translating into real benefits for the people, including access to food and nutrition, better healthcare, quality housing, education, transportation, and greater security of lives and properties. He called for policies that reflect transparency, honesty, and inclusivity, devoid of chicanery, nepotism, and strong-arm tactics.

Comrade Ajaero reiterated the NLC’s call for the federal government to withdraw the present Tax Bill and involve key national stakeholders in the process. “As we embark on a National Dialogue in Ibadan in January 2025, we want to join hands in co-creating a new national Tax law that would enjoy wider acceptance and fulfill its purpose of propelling national development,” he said.

The NLC also urged the Federal Government to prioritize industrial peace by taking social dialogue seriously, pursuing pro-human-progress policies, and respecting agreements with trade unions. Comrade Ajaero warned against the increasing use of violence in engagements with workers and unions, describing it as a recipe for industrial disharmony.

He insisted that governments at all levels must comply with the provisions of the 2024 National Minimum Wage Act from the beginning of the year. Given the economic realities imposed by recent government policies, the NLC plans to engage the government for a wage review to safeguard workers’ welfare. “Our nation will become more productive when the incomes of workers are able to meet at least their basic needs,” he added.

Comrade Ajaero called for unity in ensuring a Nigeria where workers’ welfare, decent work environments, and the security of life and property are prioritized. “Together, through collective effort and determination, we can transform our nation into one of progress, inclusion, and shared prosperity,” he concluded.

The Joint National Public Service Negotiating Council (JNPSNC) has honored Kano State Governor, Alhaji Abba Kabir Yusuf, with a prestigious award for his outstanding commitment to the welfare of public servants through the successful implementation of the consequential adjustment to the national minimum wage.

The award was presented by the Kano State Head of Civil Service, Abdullahi Musa, on behalf of the JNPSNC during a ceremony on Monday.

The recognition was announced in a statement by the governor’s spokesperson, Sunusi Bature Dawakin Tofa.

Speaking on behalf of the council, Abdullahi Musa lauded Governor Yusuf’s exceptional leadership, highlighting his dedication to workers’ welfare despite prevailing economic challenges.

“This award is a testament to the governor’s exemplary governance and his unwavering commitment to ensuring that public servants receive the benefits they deserve,” he said.

In his acceptance speech, Governor Yusuf expressed gratitude for the honor and reiterated his administration’s commitment to creating an enabling environment for workers.

He described the implementation of the minimum wage adjustment as a cornerstone of his vision for a fair and prosperous Kano State.

“This recognition is not just for me but for the entire Kano State workforce, whose dedication and hard work drive the success of our administration. We will continue to prioritize their well-being,” Governor Yusuf said.

The governor further urged other states that have yet to implement the minimum wage adjustment to follow suit, emphasizing that investing in workers is critical to achieving sustainable development and increasing productivity.

The award solidifies Governor Yusuf’s reputation as a visionary leader committed to advancing Kano State and uplifting the welfare of its people.