By Adekola Afolabi & Samuel Edu
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Workers in Ondo State under the umbrella of Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC) have conferred an Award of “Most Workers’ Friendly Governor of the Year”, on the state Governor, Oluwarotimi Akeredolu.
The NLC Chairman, Comrade Victor Oladele Amoko and his TUC counterpart, Comrade Clement Fatuase said the award was in appreciation of Governor Akeredolu’s immense contribution and unflinching support to the welfare of workers in the state.
They noted that the 2023 May Day with the theme: “Workers Rights and Socio-economic Justice”, was an occasion to celebrate and appreciate Governor Akeredolu for his genuine commitment to the welfare of workers and pensioners in the state.
The award was received by the Special Adviser to the Governor on Union Matters and Special Duties, Mr Dare Aragbaiye, who represented the Governor at the 2023 Workers’ Day Celebration.
The union leaders also gave kudos to the Governor for his leadership role and proactive measure employed to arrest the ugly trend of insecurity in the state.
The TUC chairman, Comrade Fatuase said Governor Akeredolu’s unalloyed passion for workers welfare has fostered a good working relationship between his administration and the industrious workers in the state.
“Mr Governor, it will be on record that your performance in these areas of governance are exceptional. Your choice of Comrade Dare Aragbaiye as the Special Adviser on Union Matters is indeed a catalyst in the wheel of progress of your Government and the labour centres.
In his remarks, Governor Akeredolu said the Public Service in the State has continued to enjoy a conducive working environment under his administration.
He noted that his government has put in place diverse worker-friendly programmes to ensure that workers are able to discharge their duties to the best of their abilities.
“One of these is the Orange Health Insurance Scheme (ORANGHIS) which enables workers have access to unhindered health care in the State.
“It is germane to also mention that this government has demonstrated sincere commitment to programmes and activities in other sectors like agriculture, urban renewal, community development, education and transportation.
“Ondo State has become a reference point in roads and infrastructural development. We have been able to harness available resources and make decisions on behalf of the people, such that the slogan now by the citizens of the State is “Our government” and no longer “their government.”
In his address, the State Head of Service, Pastor Kayode Ogundele who listed various landmark programmes of the government aimed at improving the workers’ welfare, equally commended labour leaders in the state for their understanding and maturity in handling union matters.
He further assured workers that governor Akeredolu led government will continually make the interest of the state workers a priority.
