Governors across Nigeria have lauded the resilience of workers and pledged to prioritize their welfare, including salary increases and better working conditions. These assurances were delivered during May Day rallies held across the nation, as various stakeholders, including labor leaders and religious bodies, echoed calls for enhanced worker welfare.
In Lagos State, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu assured workers of the implementation of a new minimum wage approved by the Federal Government. Speaking at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Governor Sanwo-Olu emphasized his administration’s commitment to addressing workers’ demands and urged against panic buying amid fuel scarcity, assuring residents of sufficient fuel availability.
Similarly, Ondo State Governor, Hon. Lucky Aiyedatiwa, pledged to prioritize workers’ welfare, emphasizing regular salary payments, pension disbursements, and the clearance of salary backlogs. He announced initiatives to bolster workers’ health insurance coverage and the appointment of a former union leader as Special Adviser on Union Matters.
In Benue State, Governor Hyacinth Alia reiterated his administration’s commitment to worker safety and health, affirming ongoing efforts to enhance workplace conditions. He highlighted infrastructure improvements and support for workers’ well-being, aligning with the theme of this year’s Labour Day.
Meanwhile, Kaduna State Governor, Uba Sani, launched a N500 million revolving loan scheme for civil servants, underscoring the importance of economic empowerment in advancing workers’ interests. He reiterated his administration’s dedication to workers’ welfare as pivotal to achieving rural transformation goals.
Cross River State Governor, Bassey Otu, announced a new minimum wage of N40,000 for state workers, reflecting the state’s economic realities. He emphasized efforts to prioritize workers’ entitlements, including regular salary payments and pension disbursements.
In Kebbi State, Governor Nasir Idris pledged to recruit 2000 teachers to bolster education initiatives and enhance workforce capacity. He emphasized efforts to convert casual workers to permanent staff and promised sustained engagement with organized labor to ensure equitable wage agreements.
However, in Anambra State, the absence of Governor Chukwuma Soludo at the May Day celebration disappointed workers awaiting announcements on wage increases and welfare packages. Despite assurances from the deputy governor, Dr. Onyekachukwu Ibezim, workers expressed concerns over unresolved issues affecting their livelihoods.
Additionally, Ekiti State Governor, Biodun Oyebanji, attributed fuel scarcity challenges to external factors but assured residents of imminent relief. He urged patience and calm amid efforts to restore fuel supply in the state.
In Bayelsa State, Governor Douye Diri established a committee to explore implementing the federal minimum wage, demonstrating his administration’s commitment to equitable wage standards.
Finally, in Abia State, Governor Alex Otti pledged to implement and backdate the new minimum wage, underscoring his administration’s dedication to worker welfare and pensioner rights.
