By Emmanuel Ikpe
Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has announced a N160 million support fund for workers in the state and gifted brand new cars to two labour leaders to mark May Day.
The Deputy Governor, Senator Akon Eyakenyi, who represented the Governor at the Workers’ Day event, said the gesture reflects Governor Eno’s commitment to supporting workers whose dedication and resilience have boosted the state’s overall development.
She presented vehicles to the Chairman of the Trade Union Congress, Comrade Kingsley Akpan, and the State Chairperson of the Joint Public Sector Negotiation Committee, Comrade Kingsley Ekong, to support their work.
Eyakenyi urged the TUC to acknowledge the administration’s efforts in maintaining security and empowering youths, noting that such initiatives have contributed to the calm atmosphere in the state.
She reiterated the government’s commitment to workers’ welfare, including the payment of gratuities. According to her, about N82 billion has been paid out of over N100 billion owed.
Eyakenyi added that the government had provided housing for civil servants through a transparent raffle system and sustained training programmes to enhance manpower development. She pledged that workers’ welfare would remain a top priority.
The Special Adviser to the Governor on Labour Matters, Sir Udo Kierian, said May Day remains a significant occasion set aside globally to celebrate employees across public and private sectors. He noted that the state workforce had every reason to celebrate, given the government’s favourable policies.
Outgoing NLC State Chairperson, Comrade Sunny James, commended Governor Eno for his efforts in promoting workers and called for a more speedy implementation process.
He added that even in moments of disagreement, the Governor had consistently shown a willingness to find common ground and resolve issues amicably.
In their solidarity messages, Head of Civil Service Mrs. Elise Peter, Speaker of the House of Assembly Rt. Hon. Udeme Otong, Chief Judge, represented by Justice Effiong Effiong, TUC Chairman Mr. Akpan, and Joint Public Sector Negotiation Committee Chairperson Comrade Akpan, praised the Governor’s commitment to workers’ welfare.
They acknowledged the administration’s efforts in promoting workers, mobilising contractors back to sites, and gradually clearing outstanding gratuities.
They expressed optimism that cooperation between labour and government would further enhance development and industrial harmony in the state.