December 31, (THEWILL) — The Rivers State Government has clarified that its annual ₦100,000 Christmas bonus is paid without discrimination to all civil servants, public office holders, and pensioners captured on the state’s payroll system.
In a statement issued on Wednesday, December 31, 2025, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Information and Communications, Dr. Honour Sirawoo, explained that the bonus is disbursed across the board to all eligible workers and retirees.
This clarification follows a public commendation from the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and reports that members of the State House of Assembly had returned the funds, labeling them “unsolicited.”
According to Dr. Sirawoo, the ₦100,000 payment has become a consistent annual practice over the past three years under the administration of Governor Siminalayi Fubara.
The funds are intended as a token of appreciation for the dedication, commitment, and service shown by the workforce throughout the year.
“While this bonus is meant to brighten the festive season, our long-term focus remains the continuous improvement of the working environment and the welfare of everyone serving Rivers State,” Sirawoo stated.
He emphasised that the policy serves as a social safety net, particularly in light of prevailing economic pressures.
The Permanent Secretary further described the NLC as a critical partner in the administration’s “Rivers First” development agenda.
He noted that the union’s acknowledgement of the bonus reflects the harmonious relationship between the state government and organized labour. Sirawoo reaffirmed that the administration regards its workers as its “greatest asset and pride,” assuring them of sustained improvements in welfare beyond seasonal incentives.
THEWILL reports that while the government maintains the payment is standard procedure for all on the payroll, the Amaewhule-led House of Assembly rejected the transfers on Tuesday, December 30, citing a lack of legislative approval and constitutional due process.
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