The Executive Chairman of Cross River Internal Revenue Service (CRIRS), Prince Edwin Okon PhD, has called on workers to embrace insurance schemes as a means of securing their future and protecting their families against unforeseen circumstances.
Dr Okon made the appeal recently in Calabar during the presentation of a ₦1.4 million Group Life Insurance benefit to the widow of a deceased Ad-hoc Staff of the Service, Mr. Charles Ugbe.
Describing the initiative as the first of its kind in the Agency, the CRIRS Chairman said the scheme was introduced in recognition of the critical role Ad hoc staff play in the Service’s revenue drive. According to him, ad -hoc workforce have continued to show dedication therefore deserve improved welfare support.
He explained that the Service introduced Group Life and Health Insurance schemes to ensure staff members have access to medical care and financial assistance during emergencies.
Dr Okon further disclosed that the welfare package for staff also includes the introduction of mid-month transport bonuses to cushion the effects of the current economic realities.
According to him, the improved welfare measures have boosted staff morale and productivity, contributing to the remarkable increase in the State’s internally generated revenue from ₦22 billion to ₦57 billion.
He noted that the insurance policy would not only reduce the financial burden on families of deceased workers but also promote accountability and discourage corrupt practices within the system.
“I urge workers to invest in insurance and savings schemes that can secure their children’s education and future needs,” he said.
The CRIRS Chairman also lauded the Governor of Cross River State, Senator Bassey Otu, for supporting innovative reforms aimed at improving workers’ welfare and strengthening the operations of the Revenue Service, praying that such initiatives are institutionalised to outlive the current and future administrations to come.
Speaking at the event, the Head of Service, Mr Orok Okon, represented by Mrs Lucy Enakirerhi, Permanent Secretary, Career Management Office, praised the CRIRS Chairman for extending welfare initiatives to ad hoc staff members. She noted that the gesture would enhance workers’ commitment and deepen their sense of belonging in the public service.
Also speaking, the Vice Chairman of the Cross River State Planning Commission, Dr Bong Duke, represented by Mr Kingsley Eyibio, Permanent Secretary in the Commission, described the initiative as timely and beneficial to workers. He encouraged Civil Servants to adopt long-term insurance and investment plans to guarantee financial stability in the future.
Responding on behalf of the family, the Widow of the deceased staff member, Mrs Monica Ugbe, expressed deep appreciation to the CRIRS Chairman for the support as she assured that the funds would be used judiciously for the welfare of her family.
Achiane Adams
