….as Gov Yahaya vows improved workers’ welfare
The Nigeria Labour Congress Gombe chapter on Thursday urged the state government to ensure the effective implementation of minimum wage for local government workers.
Speaking at the 2025 Workers Day celebration at Pantami Stadium, Chairman of NLC, Yusuf Bello, commended the governor for implementing N70,000 minimum wage for state government workers.
Our correspondent reports that this year’s theme is ‘Reclaiming the civic space in the midst of economic hardship’.
He said, “Your Excellency Sir, while we sincerely commend your unwavering commitment and strong political will in advancing the development of our beloved state, we feel compelled to bring a few pressing issues to your attention. We are confident that, true to your characteristic determination, enthusiasm, and dedication, Your Excellency will consider these concerns with the aim of finding lasting solutions.
“Effective implementation of the N70,000 minimum wage for local government workers is essential, as it is a rightful entitlement. They endure the same economic challenges as their counterparts in the state workforce and should be treated accordingly.”
Speaking further Bello harped for review of monthly pensions, adding “A review and increase in the monthly pensions of retirees at both the state and local government levels, in view of the rising cost of living.”
He continued saying “The vacuum created in the state civil service as a result of retirements, transfers, and voluntary withdrawals from service. In our opinion, this gap can be addressed through the transfer of manpower from the local government to the state civil service, as well as the recruitment of additional personnel.”
Bello also harped on the importance of equipping government-owned printing press, “The need to equip the government-owned printing press for the production of both classified and unclassified documents which requiring security and confidentiality is of utmost importance. Since the establishment of the Gombe State Printing and Publishing Company in 2004, it has been unable to effectively carry out its functions due to the lack of printing machines and equipment. Only a government-owned printing press can truly safeguard
official secrets, as its employees owe their loyalty to the state. Additionally, a well-equipped printing press can serve as a source of revenue generation for the state government,” he added.
On his part, Gombe State Governor, Muhammadu Yahaya hailed the contributions of workers in the state and pledged continued provision of welfare for efficiency and productivity.
The governor who was represented by his deputy Dr Manassah Jatau, acknowledged the critical role of workers in national development, noting that this year marked 136 years of global Workers’ Day celebrations and 45 years since its national recognition in Nigeria.
He emphasised the importance of the day as a symbol of workers’ relentless pursuit of better working conditions, fair wages, and shorter hours. While acknowledging that tensions often arise between labor and government over these issues, he highlighted Gombe’s unique position: “In the six years of this government, understanding between Labour and Government has been very high,” he stated.
Dr. Jatau outlined key achievements of the current administration in enhancing workers’ welfare. These include:- Prompt payment of salaries- Clearance of N17 billion out of N21 billion in outstanding gratuities to retirees- Early adoption of the national minimum wage- Appointment of new permanent secretaries and directors- Regular promotion of civil servants across all levels.
“Reclaiming the Civic Space amid Economic Hardship,” the Deputy Governor called for introspection and strategic action by labour unions. You must strive to be responsible, relevant, resilient, and adaptive,” he urged, adding that the shrinking civic space is a shared concern that demands proactive engagement.
He assured the workforce that pressing issues raised by the NLC, such as pension review, revival of the government printing press, and implementation of the minimum wage across all levels, are receiving attention. The administration, he noted, is also reviewing the ongoing biometric registration for civil servants to enhance its effectiveness.
He appealed to workers to support government policies, protect public infrastructure, and continue to collaborate with security agencies to maintain peace. He also extended gratitude to traditional and religious leaders, security operatives, and residents for sustaining Gombe’s reputation as the most peaceful state in Nigeria.
“As we celebrate this year’s Workers’ Day, may we also pray for rainfall, for the benefit of our largely agrarian population,” he said, rounding off the event with a prayer for continued peace and prosperity.
