Affiliate unions of the Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC and Trade Union Congress, TUC converged on the Mobolaji Johnson Arena on Wednesday in Lagos State, South-West Nigeria for the 2024 Workers Day Celebration.
With the arrival of Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the event, with the theme “The people first” was declared open. Commissioner for Establishment and Training , Afolabi Ayantoya in his goodwill message said the theme of the event resonates profoundly with the resolve of the Governor to place the welfare and empowerment of every worker within Lagos State beyond other considerations.
NLC State Chairperson, Funmi Sessi commended the Lagos State Government for the 20% increment in salary of workers, full implementation of #35,000 wage award and prompt payment of salaries. She however outlined challenges faced by workers in the state which include, the new minimum wage, reinvigoration of Industrial sector, non-enforcement of safety law in the work place, provision of independent power project, CNG and secured buses to connect towns and villages.
Sessi called for immediate action by the state government to address the critical shortage of nurses and midwives in Lagos State as well as immediate payment of the two months arrears of wage award to primary school teachers among others.
TUC State Chairman, Gbenga Ekundayo, while commending the State Government for its unwavering commitment to the well-being of the workforce in the State also advised the government to look into the current high cost of living among workers, fuel scarcity, new minimum wage, security challenges in the state, 20 years of the contributory pension scheme, and palliative distribution among others.
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Governor Sanwo-Olu in his address reaffirmed the State Government’s commitment to building a more inclusive and equitable society where the interest of workers receives the attention it deserves
According to him, the State Government will continue to invest in education, training and skills development to equip the workforce with the tools they need to succeed in their places of work.
Sanwo-Olu applauded Lagos State workers for being a backbone of the state in ensuring that essential services remain uninterrupted.
While acknowledging the immediate needs of workers, he said this year’s theme, “People First”, resonates deeply with the administration’s philosophy which is rooted by the firm belief in prioritising the welfare of the people and that through various measures, policies and initiatives, the state has demonstrated that the interest and welfare of the people comes first and remains the ultimate goal of all actions.
Sanwo-Olu said his administration’s response actions are geared towards mitigating the impact of these trying times and to offer support to both the state workers and citizens alike as he has been steadfast and intentional in implementing the social intervention programmes, providing crucial assistance to those in need throughout the state.
The Governor while encouraging workers to stand together in solidarity and solidify support for one another through these difficult times said he recognises the fundamental principles of fairness, equality and justice in the workplace as every individual, regardless of their gender or background, deserves to be treated with dignity and respect.
Sanwo-Olu said the state will continue to uphold these principles and strive to create environments where all workers feel valued, empowered and safe.
(Editor: Terverr Tyav)
