The Kwara State Governor AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq has taken a proactive step in ensuring the well-being of street sweepers by offering them health Insurance coverage. This initiative, aimed at promoting their health and Productivity at work, was announced by the state’s Deputy Governor, Kayode Alabi, during a meeting with the sweepers in Ilorin. The Commissioner for Youth Development, Mallam Shehu Ndanusa, who represented Alabi, announced that he had delegated to ensure that the sweepers are registered with the state health insurance authorities.
He announced that registration/enrollment cards would be provided for the sweepers to utilise at state-owned hospitals. Since many of them are natives, they have the chance to receive health insurance at no cost. All they have to do is sign up and follow the process. The intention behind this initiative is to motivate them to excel in their duties and to emphasise the importance of their health to the government, according to the Deputy Governor.
A more competitive monthly payment is advocated for.
At the event, Hajiya Nafisat Buge, the Commissioner for Environment, emphasised the importance of recognising and honouring the hard work of city workers dedicated to maintaining cleanliness. She highlighted the significance of timely allocation releases for Sanitation operations, truck repairs, and worker payments in achieving this goal. On behalf of the Commissioner, Alhaji Abubakar-Ayinla, the Ministry’s Permanent Secretary, stated that this event provides an opportunity for workers to openly discuss the obstacles they face in maintaining the cleanliness of the state and to propose solutions for the future,
Madam Abosede Amuda, one of the sweepers, expressed gratitude on behalf of her colleagues for the timely payment of their Salaries by the state government. She mentioned that they received their June salary before the Sallah celebration but expressed concern that the monthly payment of 15,000 Naira was insufficient. Amuda explained that after deducting transportation expenses to work daily, they struggle to afford food. She urged the government to raise their wages in response to the rising costs of transportation and food.
Sweepers were rewarded for their dedicated efforts.
Also, they demanded an increase in the number of environmental task force members deployed throughout the state to oversee the correct disposal of waste. Claims were made that certain state residents intentionally litter the roads with their garbage. In recognition of their hard work, 25 sweepers were honoured and given a reward of 5,000 Naira each, along with a large food warmer. Transportation fare back home was provided to all sweepers in attendance by the organisers of the event.
Providing health insurance for them shows a commitment to inclusive governance and social welfare. By ensuring that these workers have access to quality healthcare, the government is not only promoting their health but also their dignity and sense of worth. This initiative sets a positive example for other states to follow in prioritising the Welfare of their workforce, no matter their job title. The recognition and reward given to the sweepers at the event further demonstrate the government’s appreciation for their hard work and dedication.
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By recognising and rewarding the efforts of these dedicated street sweepers, the government is cultivating a Culture of mutual respect and appreciation that strengthens the bond between the authorities and the citizens. Beyond the immediate impact, this initiative plays a crucial role in fostering a cleaner, healthier, and more sustainable environment that benefits all residents of the state. Through these actions, the government is not only investing in the well-being of its workforce but also in the overall quality of life for everyone in the community.