…Approves 2025 promotion exercise
…Appoints ex-NULGE leader, Bola Taiwo as SA on Union Matters

By Adedotun Ajayi

Ondo state Governor, Lucky Aiyedatiwa, has said his administration will continue to promote industrial peace and operate an open and transparent government while prioritizing the welfare of workers.

The governor stated this while addressing workers during the 2024 workers’ day celebration at the Gani Fawehinmi freedom arcade Igbatoro road Akure on Wednesday.

Aiyedatiwa expressed his delight in celebrating his first Workers’ Day as the Governor of Ondo State, emphasizing the importance of the event amidst preparations for the upcoming gubernatorial election and ongoing national minimum wage negotiations.

He commended the exemplary leadership of the state’s labuor leaders and acknowledged their enduring commitment to advancing the rights of workers despite global economic challenges.

Reflecting on the state’s record of industrial peace, the governor attributed it to his administration’s commitment to transparent governance and collaborative labour relations.

He praised the dedication and contributions of Ondo State workers to the state’s progress, affirming government’s resolve to recognize and reward their efforts.

The governor said: “Ondo State has continued to enjoy industrial peace due to our administration’s adherence to open and transparent governance.  It is a known fact that in our State the Organised Labour is adequately and regularly involved in resource allocation and workers’ welfare policy issues.

“We consider effective labour relations crucial in fostering a positive and productive work environment and for effective delivery of government programmes and projects which is the main focus of responsive governance. I make bold to say that workers in Ondo State rank among the best in the country.

“I can confidently aver that our modest achievements could not have been possible without the commitment and dedication of our workers. I wish to assure you that we are committed to recognising and rewarding the industry and service of our workforce” he added.

The governor also announced that he has instructed the Head of Service to initiate next year’s promotion process before the end of the current year. This proactive approach aims to ensure that eligible workers receive their promotion letters for 2025 at the start of the new year.

Highlighting key welfare priorities, he outlined several initiatives, including regular payment of salaries, pensions, and gratuities, as well as steady promotion of workers and implementation of the Contributory Health Insurance Scheme (ORANGHIS) for all workers.

Aiyedatiwa also highlighted that a monthly allocation of N200 million has been designated for the settlement of outstanding gratuities inherited from previous administrations, in addition to the special provision of over N1.2 billion aimed at clearing gratuity arrears up to 2014.

Furthermore, he stressed the ongoing efforts to enhance healthcare services, including an upward revision and disbursement of hazard allowances to health workers, alongside a comprehensive review of salaries and entry points for medical doctors.

In the education sector, Aiyedatiwa emphasized the approval of an elongation of service for tutors, extending their length of service from 35 to 40 years and raising the retirement age from 60 to 65 years. This strategic measure aims to address the declining staff strength in public schools.

Addressing the looming governorship election, Aiyedatiwa urged residents to uphold decorum and civility, urging political stakeholders to refrain from engaging in slanderous campaigns for the sake of the state’s peace and stability.

In separate remarks at the ceremony, labour leaders in the state, including Comrade Victor Amoko, Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), and his Trade Union Congress (TUC) counterpart, Comrade Clement Fatuase, praised Governor Aiyedatiwa for his unwavering support to Ondo State workers.

They commended the administration’s efforts in education, security, infrastructure, and healthcare, citing various commendable programs and interventions.

Specifically, the NLC chairman appreciated the governor for approving the extension of service for Ondo State teachers, implementing wage awards, promoting workers promptly, paying leave bonuses arrears, hiring 2000 teachers, paying hazard allowances to health workers, and employing 1000 workers in the health sector.

The TUC chairman, Comrade Clement Fatuase, also lauded the governor’s support for Ondo State workers and labour centres since assuming office.

He acknowledged the governor’s exceptional performance in governance, particularly in promoting workers’ welfare.

He urged the appointment of a Special Adviser on Union matters from among veterans to enhance the relationship between the governor’s office and unions.

Earlier in his remark, Mr. Bayo Philip, the Head of Service, urged workers to exert their utmost efforts, assuring them that the governor is committed to improving their wages through implementation measures.

The event’s highlight featured a procession by workers from various unions, symbolizing the theme of this year’s celebration, “THE PEOPLE FIRST” and the appointment of special adviser on union matters, Comrade Bola Taiwo.

Dignitaries in attendance include; Deputy Governor Dr. Olayide Adelami, Chief Justice of Ondo State, Justice Olusegun Odusola, Head of Service Mr. Bayo Philip, State Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress Comrade Victor Amoko, and representatives from other unions such as NUJ, RATTAWU, TUC, and JNC.