Otti Pledges Fresh Commitment To Abia workers As Federal Ministry Of Labour Flags Insecurity, Poverty As Enemies Of Decent work
Governor Alex Chioma Otti on Thursday joined workers across Abia State to mark International Workers’ Day, delivering a strong message on the dignity of labour, workers’ resilience, and renewed commitments to their welfare.
Speaking at the Umuahia Township Stadium, Otti ably represented by his Deputy,Engr Ikechukwu Emetu,described labour as the bedrock of civilisation and a driving force behind economic growth and human fulfillment. He commended workers for their dedication, noting that their efforts continue to position Abia as a model of productivity, resilience, and integrity.
“Labour, in its truest form, is about preserving human dignity,” the governor said. He stressed that every worker, whether in the public or private sector, formal or informal, plays a vital role in building the state’s economy.
Otti thanked the workforce for supporting the “New Abia” vision, crediting their commitment for cleaner cities, improved public services, and sustained economic activity.
Reflecting on global labour trends, he underscored the growing importance of work-life balance, safe workplaces, and inclusive policies. Safeguarding workers’ mental health and ensuring fair treatment, he said, remain top priorities for his administration.
On welfare, Otti reaffirmed his resolve to address longstanding challenges. He disclosed that billions of naira in salary arrears inherited from previous administrations have been cleared, while over ₦10 billion has been set aside in the 2026 budget for the phased payment of outstanding gratuities.
“We understand the damage done when workers are owed, which is why we have remained consistent in meeting our obligations,” he said.
The governor also highlighted investments in capacity development, office infrastructure, and modern work tools to boost productivity. He noted that restoring meritocracy in the civil service has created opportunities for competent individuals to thrive.
He added that improvements in infrastructure and security have increased investor confidence and expanded job opportunities, especially for young people. Abia, he said, is rapidly emerging as a hub for business and innovation.
While acknowledging that challenges persist, Otti assured workers of continuous engagement and openness to dialogue. He urged unity among workers and cautioned against divisive tendencies.
He commended labour unions, including the Nigeria Labour Congress and the Trade Union Congress, for their cooperation, pledging to address their demands within available resources.
In her address, the State Controller, Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment, Dr. Okpara Helen, represented by Mr. Uduneje Chikaodi, expressed concern over rising insecurity and poverty, describing them as major threats to decent work in Nigeria.
Speaking under the theme _“Insecurity and Poverty – The Enemy of Decent Work,”_ representatives of the NLC and TUC emphasized that Workers’ Day goes beyond celebration, serving as a moment to reflect on both progress and ongoing challenges.
Okpara defined decent work as employment that ensures fair income, workplace safety, social protection, and opportunities for personal development. She noted, however, that insecurity — from criminal activities to displacement — has disrupted livelihoods across sectors.
She warned of a growing cycle where poverty fuels insecurity, which in turn worsens economic hardship. To address this, labour proposed a “Charter of Action” calling for fair wages, improved healthcare access, pension security, and stronger government efforts to protect lives and property.
Despite the challenges, Okpara urged workers to remain united and proactive. “From Aba to Umuahia, there is hope. We will continue to organize, advocate, and defend the dignity of labour,” she said.
Also speaking,the State Commissioner for Labour and Productivity, Kingsley Chibueze Nwokocha, praised workers for their critical role in governance, industry, and community development.
He reaffirmed the state government’s commitment to improving welfare, enhancing capacity development, and ensuring a conducive working environment. A motivated workforce, he stressed, is essential for sustainable economic growth. He pledged continued efforts to strengthen dialogue, maintain industrial harmony, and protect workers’ rights.
Earlier In his opening remarks,Chairman of the occasion, Member representing Isialangwa North Constituency,Hon. Ginger Onwusibe, described Workers’ Day as a time for reflection rather than mere ceremony. He emphasized that the dignity of labour must be matched with timely payment of wages, provision of work tools, respect for labour laws, and a healthy relationship between government and workers.
He urged workers to shun truancy, laxity, and corruption, noting that discipline and strong work ethics would better position them to demand accountability from government. Workers’ performance, he added, should serve as a benchmark for how they are treated. He commended the Otti administration as worker-friendly.
Also speaking, the Abia State Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress, Comrade Okoro Ogbonnaya, commended Governor Otti for “remarkable strides” in improving workers’ welfare, while presenting a list of outstanding demands requiring urgent government attention.
Ogbonnaya said workers gathered not merely to mark the annual event, but to reaffirm their commitment to the dignity of labour, fairness, and social justice.
He praised the Otti administration for implementing the ₦70,000 minimum wage, clearing significant salary arrears owed by previous administrations, and approving ₦10 billion for the settlement of pension liabilities.
He also cited the recruitment of over 10,000 teachers, payment of outstanding leave allowance arrears, and the extension of the retirement age for teachers and clinical workers to 65 years as key achievements.
Other interventions included the implementation of the Consolidated Health Salary Structure (CONHESS), payment of severance allowances to retired permanent secretaries, and the ongoing rehabilitation and equipping of more than 250 Primary Health Care Centres across the state.
Ogbonnaya acknowledged improvements in road infrastructure across Abia, noting that enhanced connectivity has significantly eased movement within and outside the state.
The highlight of the 2026 May Day celebration was a competitive march past by workers from various unions, with Deputy Governor Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu receiving the salute.
The event drew a large turnout of workers, union leaders, security agencies, and government officials, highlighting both achievements and ongoing concerns.
Amah Ijeoma
FIC Correspondent office of the Deputy Governor
01/05/2026
