The governor of Anambra State, Chief Willie Obiano has assured workers that his administration would lift up their conditions of service in the state when the resources of the state improve.
In a Workers’ Day address in Awka on Tuesday, Governor Obiano who was represented by the Deputy Governor, Dr. Nkem Okeke, affirmed that his administration places high premium on workers’ welfare which was why a Committee on Labor matters was set up to review the numerous demands of workers to enable his government address them.
Throwing light on the committee’s terms of reference, Governor Obiano revealed that it was designed to address the lingering labour issues which include an upward review in salaries and pensions, review of responsibility and hazard allowances for specific categories of workers, increment of retirement age for Nwafor Orizu College of Education staff, distribution of vehicles to directors and commencement of the contributory pensions scheme, among others.
While assuring that his administration had developed a comprehensive welfare package for workers, Governor Obiano regretted that lack of funds had stalled the implementation of his plans and promised that as the state’s resources improve, the plan would be implemented.
Governor Obiano however revealed that a promotion exercise for all workers had been updated for 2016, while approval has been obtained for that of 2017.
Earlier in his address, the State Chairman, Nigeria Labour Congress, Comrade Jerry Nnubia had expressed the hope that the Governor would use the opportunity of his second term to improve their welfare, in recognition of their massive support to him during the last governorship election and identified issues faced by the state work force such as the implementation of the minimum wage, non-payment of arrears of gratuity owed retired local government workers and primary school teachers since 2015, disparity in salary structure of the state and local government workers, training needs of workers and low cost housing, among others, urging for remedial measures.
The 2018 edition of the Workers’ Day celebration in the State with theme, “Labour Movement in National Development, Dare to Struggle, Dare to Win”, saw the Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Barrister Rita Mmaduagwu represented by the Deputy Speaker of the House, Barr Harford Oseke, Secretary to the State government, Professor Solo Chukwulobelu, the State Head of Service, Barr. Harry Udu among other government officials and Anambra workers attend the event.
The highlight of the event was March parade by the various councils and affiliate unions under Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC) in the state.
Source: Obika Chidiebere.
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