By Uzair Adam
The Kano State Government has cleared eight months’ salary arrears for 2,369 street sweepers, reaffirming its commitment to improving workers’ welfare and environmental sanitation.
The official disbursement took place on Wednesday at the Coronation Hall, Government House, where Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf, represented by the Commissioner for Environment and Climate Change, Dr. Dahir M. Hashim, handed out ATM cards loaded with the payments.
Dr. Hashim explained that the government had earlier disbursed one month’s salary to ease the workers’ financial burden while working on a sustainable payment system.
“Today, all outstanding payments have been settled, and moving forward, salaries will be paid promptly every month, In Sha Allah,” he assured.
He urged the sweepers to remain dedicated to their duties and continue supporting the administration’s efforts to maintain a cleaner and healthier Kano.
He also highlighted the crucial role of street sweepers in the government’s urban renewal initiatives.
Dr. Hashim noted that upon assuming office, the administration inherited a backlog of six months’ unpaid salaries for the workers, which later increased to eight months.
He reiterated that the settlement of these arrears aligns with the government’s broader efforts to modernize the city and enhance public infrastructure.
Plans are underway to introduce mechanized street cleaning, with daily road washing expected to commence within the next three to four months.
Additionally, the government has screened the workers and opened bank accounts for them, ensuring future payments are made simultaneously with other government employees.
He further revealed that Governor Yusuf had directed the renewal of uniforms and the provision of protective gear, including face masks and shoes, for the sweepers.
Some beneficiaries expressed gratitude for the payment, with Dayyaba Abubakar from Kumbotso Local Government thanking the governor for his support, while Salisu Sani described the salary settlement as a great relief.