Workers and pensioners in Borno State, Northeast Nigeria, have been paid salaries and pensions for April, 2020 following Governor Babagana Umara Zulum’s directives.

The Governor had directed that payments be made to enable Muslims make early preparations for the Ramadan fast which is expected to commence next week.

Spokesman for the Governor, Malam Isa Gusau says the gesture will also cushion the effects of lockdown towards curtailing Covid-19 spread.

Gusau, said the approval falls in line with Governor Zulum’s position that release of salaries does not amount to government achievement, but settlement of debt owed workers who have, based on contract, given their human resources and time to government. The spokesman recalled that, the Governor had in December 2019, released salaries and pensions by 16th of the month to enable Christians prepare early for the Christmas festival.Although Governor Zulum normally pays salaries and pensions on 26th of every month, he gives early approvals ahead of special occasions, especially religious festivities.

The Governor then wishes Muslims a peaceful and rewarding ramadan fast, while urging all citizens in Borno state to continue to observe safe distancing and regular hand washing amongst other measures to prevent the spread of Covid-19.