…clears gratuity backlog

By Precious Owolabi, Ado-Ekiti

The Ekiti State Government has reiterated its commitment to enhancing workers’ welfare, with Governor Biodun Oyebanji affirming ongoing efforts to clear outstanding gratuity payments.

Speaking during the 2025 May Day celebration held at the Ekiti Parapo Pavilion, New Iyin Road, Ado-Ekiti, Oyebanji revealed that the government had been releasing N100 million monthly and had disbursed an additional N10 billion in intervention funds to offset pension and gratuity obligations.

The celebration, themed “Reclaiming the Civil Space in the Midst of Economic Hardship,” served as a platform to honour workers’ contributions and underscore their pivotal role in the development of Ekiti State.

Governor Oyebanji expressed optimism that all outstanding payments would soon be cleared, while emphasising the state’s dedication to restoring the dignity of labour.

He called for stronger collaboration between labour unions and the government, encouraging workers to participate in shaping economic policies through constructive dialogue and innovative ideas.

“As major stakeholders, workers are encouraged to provide constructive opinions and innovative solutions that can help transform the economy for the greater good of all citizens,” the governor said.

In his address, the Chairman of the Trade Union Congress (TUC), Comrade Sola Adigun, urged urgent reforms in Nigeria’s labour laws and the protection of civil space, citing worsening economic conditions, with a 32.2% inflation rate and food inflation surging to 40%.

Adigun warned that the erosion of civil liberties and outdated labour laws were undermining workers’ rights.

“The enemy of our solidarity and progress as workers is the growing attack on our civil space,” he declared.

He cited economic hardship and increasing threats to workers’ rights as major issues affecting Nigerian workers.

He concluded by challenging the government and stakeholders to act decisively.

“We cannot keep attending international labour conferences and fail to domesticate the resolutions we endorse,” he said.

Also speaking, the Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Comrade Kolapo Olatunde, commended the state government for implementing the N70,000 minimum wage, describing it as a meaningful step towards improving workers’ welfare.

He urged private employers, particularly in the power sector, to emulate the state government in prioritising worker welfare.

He described May Day as a time for reflection, progress, and renewed commitment to the cause of the working class.

Comrade Femi Ajoloko, Chairman of the May Day Committee, presented a series of unresolved labour issues to the authorities and lauded the NLC and TUC for their continued advocacy.

He emphasised the significance of May Day as a moment for reflection and recommitment to labour ideals.

“As we celebrate the 2025 Workers’ Day, I pray we all live to witness many more in good health,” he concluded.