29 Sep Minister for Special Duties Commits to Enhancing NLRC’s Salaries, Welfare, Operations
Special Duties Minister Commits to Enhancing NLRC’s Salaries, Welfare, Operations
By: Anthony Udoka
In a notable demonstration of commitment to addressing crucial challenges and fostering collaboration, the Minister of Special Duties and Intergovernmental Affairs, Hon. Zaphaniah Bitrus Jisalo, embarked on a significant familiarization visit to the headquarters of the National Lottery Regulatory Commission (NLRC) in Abuja.
During this visit, critical discussions and interactions took place to tackle various issues confronting the Commission while strengthening the partnership between the Ministry and NLRC.
Minister Jisalo expressed his deep appreciation for his appointment as the Minister of Special Duties and Intergovernmental Affairs. He underscored the historical significance of his appointment as the first indegene of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) to hold such a prestigious position as a federal cabinet member. He conveyed his unwavering dedication to serving Nigerians and contributing to the establishment of a robust foundation for future generations.
In his address, Minister Jisalo emphasized the pivotal role that the NLRC plays in advancing President Tinubu’s 8-Point Agenda.
Minister Special Duties meeting with DG and Management of NLRC
This comprehensive agenda, he said, encompasses critical areas such as ensuring food security, eradicating poverty, driving economic growth, fostering job creation, facilitating access to capital, promoting inclusivity, strengthening security, upholding fairness and the rule of law, and intensifying the fight against corruption.
Acknowledging the formidable challenges faced by the NLRC, including issues related to staff salaries, the need for a suitable office facility, and the acquisition of a Central Monitoring System (CMS) to enhance revenue generation for the federal government, Minister Jisalo assured the NLRC of his unwavering commitment to resolving these challenges expeditiously.
He emphasized that the Ministry would collaborate closely with the National Income, Salaries, and Wages Commission to comprehensively review staff salaries, thereby addressing this pressing concern.
Jisalo also pledged to expedite the legislative process for the Lottery Act, recognizing that previous challenges necessitate a fresh start. He gave his assurance that this legislative effort would culminate in the enactment of a new law within a remarkably swift 90-day period. In this regard, he urged the legal services involved to exhibit diligence in their work to achieve this crucial objective.
Addressing the vital matter of the Central Monitoring System (CMS), Jisalo provided assurance that the federal government would promptly resolve this issue.
He emphasized the paramount importance of enhancing revenue collection for the government, making the prompt resolution of the CMS matter a top priority.
Furthermore, he encouraged the NLRC to explore avenues for acquiring land from the Ministry of FCT and applying for it to construct a permanent office facility.
Additionally, the Minister proposed the exploration of utilizing seized government assets for office purposes, and addressing the pressing need for suitable office infrastructure.
In his welcome address, the Director-General of the National Lottery Regulatory Commission, Mr. Lanre Gbajabiamila (OON), expressed profound gratitude for the Minister’s visit and underscored the substantial challenges confronting the Commission.
DG-NLRC MR LANRE GBAJABIAMILA (OON) speaking during the visit of the Minister Special Duties
These challenges, as highlighted by Gbajabiamila, encompass the imperative of acquiring a dedicated office facility owned by the Commission, the acquisition of a Central Monitoring System (CMS), and the enhancement of staff salaries and welfare.
He expressed unwavering optimism that the Minister’s intervention would herald positive changes aligned with President Tinubu’s “renewed hope” mantra.
One pressing need is a befitting office facility owned by the Commission. The Commission currently operates from rented buildings which is a significant financial burden for the Commission. Secondly, acquiring a Central Monitoring System (CMS) is another crucial requirement that will significantly improve our revenue generation for the federal government.
Furthermore, poor staff salaries and conditions of service is continually a struggle for the Commission. These issues are paramount to the welfare of our staff and they’re all linked to the acquisition of the Central Monitoring System.
“We kindly request that you use your good offices to help us overcome these challenges and we’re hopeful that this will become a reality in your tenure,” Gbajabiamila had said.
Minister Special Duties in a Photo with Management and Staff of NLRC
The Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Special Duties and Intergovernmental Affairs, Mrs. Ibiene Roberts, who accompanied the Minister, placed significant emphasis on the principles of collaboration and transparency.
She assured stakeholders of the Ministry’s unwavering commitment to upholding these principles, thereby ensuring transparency, accountability, innovation, efficiency, and responsiveness to stakeholders’ needs.
The visit encompassed interactive sessions involving management and staff members of the NLRC.
During these sessions, staff members passionately called for improved welfare and working conditions, underlining the critical importance of addressing these issues.
The culminating moment of the visit was marked by a group photograph, symbolizing the strengthening of bonds and collaboration between the Ministry of Special Duties and Intergovernmental Affairs and the National Lottery Regulatory Commission.
It also serves as a pivotal step toward addressing challenges and enhancing the operations of the Commission, affirming the Ministry’s commitment to supporting the NLRC in fulfilling its vital mandate.