The Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) in Kano has called for an urgent investigation into the alleged misappropriation of N1.5 billion belonging to workers, reportedly siphoned by the immediate past Head of Service (HoS), Abdullahi Musa.
NLC Raises Alarm Over Missing Funds
Speaking during the 2026 May Day Celebration at Sani Abacha Stadium, NLC State Chairman, Comrade Kabiru Inuwa, disclosed that reliable sources had informed the union about the missing funds. He insisted that the government must ensure the recovery of the public resources.
"Information reaching us this morning indicated that a sum of N1.5 billion is missing under the custody of the immediate past Head of Service. If that is true, we demand an immediate investigation," Inuwa stated.
He emphasized that the funds belong to Kano State workers and must not be allowed to disappear without accountability. "If that money is released into the market, it will stabilize so many homes. So, we urge the government to investigate whoever is involved and bring them to book in the public interest," Inuwa added.
Salary Disparity and Security Concerns
The labour leader also lamented the wide salary disparity between state and local government civil servants, which he said has continued to generate inequality and social gaps against workers at the local government level. He appealed for urgent measures to bridge the gap and ensure equal opportunity.
On the security situation in Kano, the NLC Chairman called on the state government to address insecurity threatening the social welfare of residents. He emphasized the need for security in the workplace and the environment to ensure decent working conditions.
Commendation for Governor's Labour-Friendly Policies
Inuwa, however, applauded Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf's labour-friendly initiatives, citing the payment of N32 billion out of N45 billion outstanding gratuity and death benefits inherited from previous administrations. He also commended the recruitment of workers in various sectors of the economy, describing it as a major social investment.
"We celebrate the gains we have seen under the leadership of His Excellency, the Executive Governor of Kano State. The administration's worker-friendly approach has been clear in policy and practice. In the face of economic and security challenges, this government recognizes that workers are not mere line items in the budget, but human beings entitled to respect, timely remuneration, and the protection that comes with decent employment," Inuwa noted.
He acknowledged the regular and timely payment of salaries across critical sectors of the public service, adding that while timely pay is not a favor, it is a right and a critical element of dignity at work.
Governor Orders Investigation
Responding to the allegation of missing funds, Governor Abba Kabir Yusuf directed the Secretary to the State Government to set up an investigative committee to look into the matter. He assured that anyone found wanting would face the full weight of the law.
Addressing workers at the event, Yusuf described labour as the "engine room of governance and development," noting that mental well-being, job security, and fair wages are critical to productivity. He said the government would continue to prioritize economic empowerment, improved security, and human capital development to address poverty and workplace challenges.
The governor disclosed that his administration inherited over N48 billion in unpaid gratuities and death benefits, adding that N32 billion had so far been settled. He pledged to clear the outstanding liabilities before the end of his tenure.
Yusuf also highlighted measures aimed at improving workers' welfare, including prompt salary payments and implementation of a N71,000 minimum wage, making Kano one of the first states in the country to adopt the new pay structure. Other initiatives, he said, include the establishment of the Local Government Service Commission, retirement training programs, and an increase in the minimum pension from N5,000 to N20,000.
