By: Iniemem Inyang
Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pst. Umo Eno has announ
ced a support fund of N160 million for Akwa Ibom State Workers.
The Governor also gifted the Chairman of Trade Union Congress (TUC) Comrade Kingsley Akpan and the State Chairperson of the Joint Public Sector Negotiation Committee, Comrade Kingsley Ekong brand new Cars in commemoration of the day.
The Deputy Governor, Sen. Akon Eyakenyi who represented the Governor at the event, said it was a commitment by Gov Eno to supporting Akwa Ibom State Workers as their dedication, resilience and productivity have significantly boosted productivity in the state’s overall development.
She described Akwa Ibom as one of the most peaceful states in the country, attributing the steady influx of organisations and groups holding meetings in the state to its safety and stability, noting that recent commendations came in yesterday as the Inspector General of Police, Tinju Disu and the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshall Sunday Kelvin further underscored the Government’s investments in security and peaceful coexistence.
“Just yesterday the IGP of Police and Chief Air Staff applauded the Gov for the peaceful and decent nature of the state.
“ And this speaks to the commitment and investment made by the Governor of the state.”
Eyakenyi, however, urged the Trade Union Congress to acknowledge the administration’s efforts in maintaining security and empowering youths, stressing that such initiatives had significantly contributed to the calm atmosphere in the state.
She disclosed that the leadership of the Nigeria Labour Congress and TUC had earlier paid a courtesy visit to the Governor to present key issues affecting workers, noting that the Governor promptly constituted a committee to address the concerns within one month.
She also paid tribute to the outgoing NLC Chairman, Comrade Sunny James, praising his patriotism and commitment to the growth of the state as she expressed optimism that he would continue to contribute to development even after his tenure.
Eyakenyi announced further that the state government was rewarding Comrade Akpan and Mr. Ekong, with official vehicles to support their work. She reiterated the government’s commitment to worker’s welfare, including the payment of gratuities, revealing that about N82 billion had been paid out of over N100 billion.
She added that the government had also provided housing for civil servants through a transparent raffle system and sustained training programmes to enhance manpower development, pledging that worker’s welfare would remain a top priority of the administration.
The Special Adviser to the Governor on Labour Matters, Sir Udo Kierian, in his tone setting, said May Day remained a significant occasion set aside globally to celebrate hardworking employees across both public and private sectors, noting that the state workforce had every reason to celebrate in view of the government’s favourable policies.
He stated that since assuming office in May 2023, the governor had carried workers along in governance, adding that the administration’s vision and mission had been effectively interpreted through various ministries and government offices.
Also, the NLC State Chairperson, Comrade Sunny James, commended the administration of Governor Eno for efforts in promoting workers, and sued for a more speedy process in implementation.
He also appreciated the Governor for paying gratuities till date.
“We have a leader who loves workers and is gradually clearing gratuities,” he said.
James described his tenure which began in April of 2019 as “not an easy one” noting that despite challenges, his leadership has recorded significant strides in representing workers’ interest.
He urged workers to remain committed and united as he bows out honourably in few months.
He further noted that even in moments of disagreement, Governor Eno had consistently demonstrated a willingness to find common ground, resolving issues amicably.
In their various solidarity messages, Head of Civil Service, Mrs. Elise Peter, Speaker, House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Udeme Otong, Chief Judge represented by Justice Effiong Effiong, TUC Chairman Mr. Akpan, State Chairperson Joint Public Sector Negotiation Committee, Comrade Akpan, commended the Governor for his commitment to worker’s welfare, noting that despite occasional disagreements, the governor had always sought for ways of bettering the lots for workers. They also acknowledged his administration’s efforts in promoting workers, mobilising contractors back to sites, and gradually clearing outstanding gratuities, while expressing optimism that the existing cooperation between labour and government would further enhance development and industrial harmony in the state.
