Enugu: Gov. Peter Mbah of Enugu State has hailed workers in the state for their sacrifices and industrial harmony during the 2025 Workers’ Day Celebration held on Thursday in Enugu, themed ‘Reclaiming the Civic Space in the Midst of Economic Hardship.’ Represented by his Chief of Staff, Mr. Victor Udeh, Mbah emphasized his commitment to improving workers’ welfare.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the governor highlighted his administration’s achievements, including the promotion and conversion of over 2,000 workers following the 2024 promotion and interviews. He also mentioned the payment of palliatives even after the Federal Government and other states ceased doing so, and the implementation of an N80,000 minimum wage to workers, including local government employees. Other initiatives included the approval of gratuity payments upon retirement, provision of compressed natural gas buses for workers and residents, restoration of power supply at the State Secretariat Complex, and the introduction of E-governance.
Mbah stated that Enugu State’s growth into a 30-billion-dollar economy necessitates a dedicated workforce and pledged to continue motivating workers, as a motivated workforce leads to increased productivity.
The Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) Enugu Chapter, Comrade Fabian Nwigbo, acknowledged the increased minimum wage but noted that it lacked consequential adjustment. He urged the governor to consider incorporating such adjustments into the wage structure and commended Mbah for his developmental efforts. Nwigbo also called for the swift payment of gratuity arrears and pension arrears, approval of domestic servant allowances based on the new minimum wage, and construction of low-cost housing for workers.
Nwigbo stressed the importance of workers speaking out against unfair treatment and demanding accountability. He highlighted the need for advocacy and change amidst rising living costs, stagnant wages, and unemployment. Furthermore, he urged Mbah to focus on training and retraining workers and completing the new Secretariat for NLC and TUC.
Comrade Benneth Asogwa, Chairman of the Trade Union Congress (TUC) Enugu Chapter, echoed the need for consequential adjustment as a vital component of the minimum wage, likening it to seasoning that enhances a meal. He expressed confidence in the governor’s commitment to eventually implementing these adjustments and reiterated the workers’ dedication to supporting government policies aimed at advancing Enugu State.