In recognition of the strategic role of workers towards the rapid development of the state, Akwa Ibom State Government has reiterated her commitment to the welfare of workers to ensure their continuous productivity.
Governor Udom Emmanuel who was represented by his Deputy, Mr Moses Ekpo at the 2022 Workers’ Day celebration held at Ibom Hall yesterday, commended the Labour Union for the industrial harmony of workers which has led to the giant strides recorded in the economic growth and development of the State.
Seeking more collaboration between the State Government and Workers, Governor Udom Emmanuel promised to attend to the demands by the Labour Union including payment of outstanding arrears of one month minimum wage and approval of 2021 workers promotion.
Speaking earlier, Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress, Akwa Ibom State Council, Comrade Sunny James applauded the state government for completely addressing good number of issues raised in the thirteen (13) points demands of the Union and for up-to-date payment of Workers leave grant.
The NLC Chairman called on the state government to immediately replace encroached land allocated to the Union at Ikpedip, Ibiono/Ikot Ide Itak, overhaul facilities and equip the State Fire Service, liaise with necessary agencies and commence full implementation of financial autonomy for local government, the legislature and the Judiciary, activate the state’s printing press and clearance of outstanding gratuities to various categories of retired workers among other demands.
While decrying the poor welfare of workers in the State said,- ”a few days ago, as part of the activities to mark 2022 Workers’ Day, Organized Labour in the State held a Workers’ Political Conference with a major Agenda of unveiling the Charter of Demands to the public as our expectations from the upcoming or would-be leaders in our State.
The conference resolved to invite all flag-bearers of Political Parties after the primaries to the Labour House for adequate engagement on our Charter, in order to deliberate and exchange their manifestos and establish time-lines on all items which will bring the needed good governance to our people.
“Only the Candidate that honour our invitations and agree with workers to resolve issues as contained in our 5-points Charter, shall be supported together with our families during the elections of 2023.” The NLC Chairman said.
The 2022 May Day celebration which had as its theme, “labour, politics and quest for good governance and development in Nigeria” featured March past by different professional bodies, unions and craftmen with the Nigeria Union of Teachers taking the first position, Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees coming second and the Nigeria Union of Journalists clinging the third position.
