In a bid to cushion the impact of recent economic shifts on Kwara State’s workforce, Governor Abdulrahman AbdulRazaq has approved a financial bonus for all civil servants and local government workers. This bonus, equivalent to the monthly Pay-As-You-Earn (PAYE) deduction, will be paid out over the next three months, providing critical support as workers adjust to the recent recalibration of PAYE deductions under the Personal Income Tax Act.

The announcement, made on Monday by Kwara State’s Commissioner for Finance, Hauwa Nuru, reveals that the relief will be in effect from October to December 2024.

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“This bonus has been approved as a buffer to bridge the gap that the correct PAYE deduction may have wrought on the newly implemented mininum wage. It is meant to serve as a soothing balm as workers adjust to the PAYE that was just correctly implemented in line with the Personal Income Tax Act,” Nuru stated. “The payment of the bonus is effective from October and will run till December 2024. This is a significant step by His Excellency to support workers.”

The statement noted that to qualify for the November and December bonuses, all workers must register with the Kwara State Residents’ Registration Agency (KWSRRA). The state government has also agreed with labour unions to refund previously deducted special levies from salaries and to suspend such deductions until further notice.

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Highlighting the governor’s commitment to worker welfare, Nuru added, “Governor AbdulRazaq’s directive to deliver this relief speaks volumes about his humanity and his commitment to the welfare of Kwara workforce.”