Gov. Oluwarotimi Akeredolu of Ondo State has reiterated his administration’s commitment to creating an enabling environment for social workers in the state.
He said that this would be achieved through his administration’s community development programmes in all the 18 local government areas of the state.
Akeredolu stated this on Thursday in Akure while addressing members of the state chapter of Nigeria Association of Social Workers (NASW), in commemoration of the 2021 World Social Workers’ Day.
March 16 of every year has been earmarked by the United Nations as World Social Workers’ Day, while it is celebrated in the state on March 18.
Reports state the day serves as an opportunity for social workers and others in the social service sector to celebrate their achievements and raise awareness on the important role they play in the lives of vulnerable families and communities.
Akeredolu, represented by his Deputy, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, assured of his administration’s support to all social workers in the state, urging them to remain resolute in the discharge of their duties.
He said that the day also presented an opportunity to focus on the need for further planning, development and support to the profession and the social service sector.
“We will give you all the necessary support that will make your work easy so that our people can live well.
“This government is determined to reach out to our people, irrespective of where they are living, through social workers like you,” he said.
Earlier, the NASW Chairman in the state, Mr Oluwole Fatokun, acknowledged the Akeredolu-led administration’s efforts at prioritising the welfare of workers.
Fatokun pledged the loyalty and support of his members to the government.
Also speaking, Permanent Secretary, Directorate of Rural and Community Development, Mr Femi Aladenola, said this year’s theme: UBUNTU, meaning “I am because we are” was significant, particularly owing to the people-oriented projects of the present administration in the state.