- By Halimah Olamide
Civil servants in the employment of the Lagos state government are now to be in their offices three days a week as Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu on Thursday announced a reduction in work days.
The governor, at a media chat said the move was part of strategies to reduce the effect of the high cost of living across the country.
Nigeria currently faces challenges in its economy with fast depleting economic opportunities.
A removal in the subsidy on fuel has precipitated a backlash creating serious challenge for citizens’ purchasing power.
“We want to start with our public servants, immediately from next week, Civil servants from the lower level will be working like three times a week and level 15-17 can work four times in a week,” Sanwo-Olu said during the ongoing media parley on economic hardship.
The Governor announced a 25% cut in the cost of public transportation while promising to open Sunday food markets in about 42 locations across the state for residents to get food items as reduced prices.
“We will open Sunday Markets in at least 42 identified markets across Lagos State. You will be able to buy food items at a discounted price. You will only be able to buy items worth up to N25,000,” the governor said.
He declared that civil servants are expected to be physically at work three days in a week.
However, workers in the teaching sector will maintain the five-days-a-week work schedule, while promising the government will ensure additional transport support for them.
He said, “We are seeking to achieve a process where people will slow down, reducing the pressure from the work environment. We don’t want a tired public workforce; let them be able to work remotely.”
“We have a lot of online technology that can handle some of the responsibilities that they are doing, and Lagos state has such resources.
“Lagos is the first to ensure that only pensioners who retired in 2023 are awaiting full payment; everyone else has been cleared. We recognize the vital contribution of our pensioners and affirm our commitment to addressing their financial needs promptly and plans are on-going to clear those outstanding.”
Addressing food insecurity, the governor disclosed plans for comprehensive food palliatives to reach vulnerable households across the state. Over 100 trailers of essential food items, including rice, garri, and beans, are expected to be distributed to 300,000 households. Additionally, Sunday markets will be established in 42 markets offering staple foods at reduced prices with a 25 percent rebate but purchases capped at N25,000
On transportation, he announced a 25 percent reduction in public transportation fares effective immediately. This reduction applies to all modes of public transport, including BRT, trains, and ferry services, in collaboration with various transport unions.
“We are also introducing the ‘soup bowl’ initiative, akin to the soup kitchens implemented during the lockdown, to provide daily meals to residents in need across every local government area for the next 60 days,” Governor Sanwo-Olu explained.
Speaking on healthcare, Sanwo-Olu announced significant initiatives aimed at improving access and reducing the financial burden on citizens. All 31 general hospitals in Lagos will offer free child delivery services, including both normal and caesarean births.
He added that the cost of essential drugs for conditions like hypertension and diabetes will be reduced, with rebates available at healthcare facilities, saying health missions will be conducted across six health districts, providing free medications and health checks to thousands.
In the education sector, Governor Sanwo-Olu pledged to eliminate the requirement for parents to provide evidence of tax payment, thereby removing a significant barrier to accessing education for many families.
The governor reiterated his commitment to implementing measures that prioritize the welfare of Lagosians, adding that his administration will continue to innovate and implement policies that alleviate the hardships faced by the people.