The Lagos state government has promised to pay its workers 15 percent bonus in the December salary as an end of the year bonus. The Head of Service, Mrs Oliseyi Williams disclosed this on Friday.
Speaking at the end of the year get together, she expressed appreciation for the principal and directors in the ministry of Education.
She said that the bonus would be paid along with the December salary any moment from now.
According to her, the bonus is to show that the government of the state is committed to the welfare of its workers.
“Some states are owing their workers up to four months salary but that is not the case in Lagos.
“I was discussing with some HOS and they told me they are looking for money to pay their workers salaries.
“Our workers will receive their December salary any moment from now and I am happy to say it that it will come with 15 per cent bonus.
“Government appreciates your service to the state and urges you to continue to put in your best.
“Wherever you get your daily meal, it is good to put in your best; your reward is on earth,” she said.
Mrs. Williams, encouraged the principals and the directors to double their effort in 2015, adding that to whom much is given, much would be expected.
“You are a veritable member of the education family and we are here to celebrate you and thank you for taking care of our children in your care.
“As you take care of the children, God will reward you all.
“We are not there yet but with your support, we will get their together,” she said.
Mr Segun Raheem, NUT Chairman, Lagos branch commended the government for appreciating the contributions of the principals and directors.
Raheem also commended the government for introducing Eko project, a World Bank supported project, saying it has improved students performance in many areas.
He said that teachers in Lagos were grossly inadequate and the available ones were not evenly distributed.
“We have few teachers in English, History, Music and Geography.
“The result of last May/June SSCE examination shows students perform poorly; as professionals, we need to come together to discuss and see if this is so.
“We should find out why students are failing English and not other subjects set in the same language,” he said.
Raheem urged the principals to adopt the ethics of teaching and do things right in their schools.
“Among teachers in Nigeria, teachers in Lagos are outstanding; the motivational activities have helped a lot.
Raheem urged the government to monitor projects being carried out by some contractors in some schools to ensure quality service.
Prof. Abisogun Leigh, former Vice Chancellor, Lagos State University, (LASU) commended the government for giving bonus to its workers.
Leigh, also a former commissioner for education in 1978 in the state, said that Lagos State has performed well in the area of education.
“Teaching is a profession that teaches others, whether it is recognized or not, you should know that what you are doing is noble.
“Education is a wonderful profession and I am proud to be part of it,’’ he said.