The Rivers State Government has reiterated that its annual N100,000 Christmas bonus is distributed to all civil and public office holders in the state, with no discrimination.

Dr Honour Sirawoo, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Information and Communications, explained that the bonus is disbursed to all workers, including pensioners, listed on the Rivers State Government payroll system.

His clarification came in response to the commendation by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) for the recent payment of the Christmas bonus.

Although he did not speak on reports that members of the Rivers State House of Assembly rejected the bonus, Dr Sirawoo confirmed that the ₦100,000 payment has been consistently provided over the past three years to civil servants, public officers, and pensioners.

READ ALSO: Rivers Assembly Members Return Christmas Bonus To State Coffers

He emphasised that the bonus, which has become an annual practice for civil and public servants on the state payroll, is intended as a token of appreciation for their dedication and service throughout the year.

The Rivers State House of Assembly on Tuesday stated that it had returned the ₦100,000 credited to the personal bank accounts of its members, calling the transfers unsolicited and unapproved.

In a statement signed by Hon. Enemi George, the Assembly explained that the funds were credited on December 30, 2025, following instructions from the Governor of Rivers State, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, without legislative approval.

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The House said that upon discovering the transfers, members promptly returned the money to the account of the Rivers State Government.

The Assembly stressed that, as an institution guided by the Constitution, all public expenditures must follow due process, including legislative authorization.

Nevertheless, Dr Sirawoo affirmed that Governor Siminalayi Fubara remains committed to proactive measures that provide a social safety net for state employees and their families.

He also highlighted that the state government sees the NLC not just as a labour union, but as a vital partner in the “Rivers First” development agenda.

He noted that the union’s public acknowledgment of the gesture reflects the cordial relationship between the administration and the workforce.

According to Dr Sirawoo, workers continue to be the greatest pride of the Rivers State Government.

“While this bonus is meant to brighten the festive season, our long-term focus remains the continuous improvement of the working environment and the welfare of everyone serving Rivers State,” he said.