Yobe Approves 35% Weigh-In Allowance For Journalists, Others Get 20%

Yobe State government has approved the implementation of a weigh-in allowance for journalists and non-journalists working in the state’s media and cultural sectors to enhance their welfare and productivity.

The approval, conveyed through the Office of the Head of Service, followed a joint request by the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) and the Radio, Television, Theatre and Arts Workers Union (RATTAWU).

According to the directive, journalists will receive 35 per cent of their basic salary as a weigh-in allowance, while non-journalists in the sector will benefit from 20 per cent of their basic salary.

The government noted that both unions had been enjoying the allowance prior to the implementation of the N70,000 national minimum wage, making the approval a continuation and formalisation of existing welfare arrangements.

The statement, signed by the Permanent Secretary (Establishments), Zainab Mohammed Ago, on behalf of the Head of Service, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to supporting media professionals and workers in the arts and culture sector.

The development is expected to boost morale among practitioners and strengthen service delivery across the state’s information and cultural institutions.