Otti Reaffirms Commitment To Workers’ Welfare As Labour Unions Press Demands At Abia May Day Rally

Abia State Governor, Dr. Alex Otti, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to prioritising workers’ welfare, even as organised labour called for urgent action on persistent economic and workplace challenges.

The governor made this known during the 2026 International Workers’ Day celebration held at the Umuahia Township Stadium, where he was represented by his deputy, Engr. Ikechukwu Emetu.

Addressing workers, Otti emphasised the central role of labour in promoting human dignity, productivity, and sustainable development, commending the resilience of the state’s workforce amid prevailing economic pressures.

“Labour, in its truest form, is about the preservation of human dignity,” he said. “Individually and collectively, you are the reason our institutions function.”

He lauded workers across sectors for their contributions to the state’s growth, describing the Abia workforce as a model of professionalism and resilience.

“You have given wings to the New Abia project, refusing to be defeated by the harsh economic realities of the time,” the governor added.

Highlighting key achievements of his administration, Otti pointed to the clearance of salary arrears inherited from previous governments and the provision of over ₦10 billion in the 2026 budget for the phased payment of outstanding gratuities owed to retirees.

“We have walked back time to offset long-standing arrears owed to our workers. Workers’ welfare remains a critical pillar of governance,” he stated.

Reaffirming his administration’s stance on fair compensation, the governor stressed that adequate remuneration is essential for industrial harmony.

“In the New Abia, every worker matters, and everyone deserves to earn a decent income from their legitimate endeavours, because labour without reward breeds disaffection,” he said.

Otti also outlined ongoing investments in capacity development, workplace infrastructure, and technology, noting that improved working conditions are vital to enhancing efficiency and service delivery. He assured workers of sustained engagement with labour unions to strengthen trust and maintain industrial peace.

In their separate remarks, labour leaders acknowledged the government’s efforts but highlighted pressing concerns affecting workers.

Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Abia State Council, Comrade Ogbonnaya Okoro, identified insecurity and poverty as major threats to decent work.

“Workers today face daily threats, while inflation and the removal of fuel subsidy have significantly eroded the value of wages,” he said. “Every worker deserves to go to work safely and return home with dignity.”

While commending the implementation of the ₦70,000 minimum wage and efforts in clearing arrears and addressing pension issues, Okoro urged the government to settle promotion arrears, correct wage anomalies, and pay outstanding salaries owed to affected workers.

Similarly, Chairman of the Trade Union Congress (TUC), Abia State Council, Comrade Dr. Ifeanyi Eze, decried the rising cost of living and its impact on workers’ welfare.

“The increasing cost of living has placed workers under immense pressure, making it difficult for many families to meet basic needs,” he said.

Eze called on the government to address disparities in salary structures, ensure full implementation of the minimum wage across all sectors, and expedite pending promotions and pension obligations.

“A fair and equitable wage system is essential to restoring confidence and boosting productivity,” he added.

Also speaking, the Commissioner for Labour and Productivity, Mr. Kingsley Nwokocha, stressed the importance of sustained collaboration between government and labour unions in maintaining industrial harmony.

“A motivated workforce is critical to achieving sustainable economic growth,” he said, reaffirming the government’s commitment to improving working conditions.

The May Day rally attracted workers from across the state, alongside top government officials, labour leaders, and other stakeholders. While the government highlighted its reforms and achievements, labour unions underscored the need for continued dialogue and concrete actions to address workers’ concerns and improve overall welfare.