The Rivers State Government has clarified that the ₦100,000 Christmas bonus paid annually by the state is disbursed to all civil servants, public office holders and pensioners on the government payroll, without discrimination.
Gatekeepers News reports that the clarification was made by the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Information and Communications, Dr Honour Sirawoo, in response to public reactions following the commendation by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) over the recent payment of the bonus.
Dr Sirawoo said the ₦100,000 payment is made across board to all eligible workers and pensioners captured on the Rivers State Government payroll system, noting that the practice has been consistent over the past three years.
He explained that the bonus, which has become an annual tradition, is intended as a token of appreciation for the dedication and service of civil servants and public officers throughout the year, especially during the festive season.
While declining to comment directly on reports that members of the Rivers State House of Assembly rejected the bonus, Sirawoo reiterated that the payment was not selective and applied uniformly to all categories of public servants.
On Tuesday, the Rivers State House of Assembly announced that it had returned the ₦100,000 credited to the personal bank accounts of its members, describing the payments as unsolicited and unapproved.
In a statement signed by Hon. Enemi George, the House said the funds were credited on December 30, 2025, following directives from Governor Siminalayi Fubara, without legislative approval. The lawmakers said they immediately took steps to refund the money to the Rivers State Government upon discovering the transfers.
However, Dr Sirawoo said Governor Fubara remains committed to implementing proactive welfare measures that provide a social safety net for state employees and their families.
He added that the state government views the NLC not merely as a labour union but as a critical partner in the “Rivers First” development agenda, noting that the union’s public commendation reflects the cordial relationship between the administration and the workforce.
According to him, workers remain the greatest pride of the Rivers State Government.
“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 said.
