I feel honoured to be invited to the 2019 May Day Celebration jointly organized by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), the Trade Union Congress (TUC) and United Labour Congress of Akwa Ibom Councils. Let me begin by commending you for your efforts in organizing this celebration.
I commend your founding fathers for laying a solid foundation for the evolution of functional, focused and time-tested labour movements in Nigeria. May I also commend the present crop of comrades (Trade Unionists and friends) for sticking to and embracing the ideals set by their forebears.
The theme of this year’s celebration - “Another 100 Years of Struggle for Jobs, Dignity and Social Justice in Nigeria”, appears well conceived and framed as Labour, over the years, has worked hard to achieve dignity, social justice, decent jobs and employment in Nigeria.
The Ministry of Economic Development, Labour and Manpower Planning, conscious of the need for regular interactions between the State Government and Labour had organized a symposium as part of activities marking the 2019 Workers Day celebrations with the theme, The Akwa Ibom Worker in the Emerging Age: Harnessing Value and Opportunity. The insights that emerged from the rare talkshop were as varied as they were educative. It was clear, at the end of deliberations, that workers in Akwa Ibom are prepared for the myriad opportunities being created by the Udom Emmanuel era.
On this note, it is only natural that Labour and indeed, Akwa Ibom people, continue to appreciate His Excellency, Mr. Udom Emmanuel, for his vision in governance. That vision has won for Akwa Ibom State the respect of Nigeria and the larger global community as investors continue to troop into Akwa Ibom State. For Labour in Akwa Ibom State, it has translated to prompt and regular payment of salaries and other entitlements, and the provision of infrastructure while broadening the flanks of the economy for prosperity.
To some, the roles of Labour are to project, do lockout, protest and create civil disobedience, while furthering the interests of their members. To me, it goes beyond that. Labour plays a critical role in the sustenance of social justice, dignity and jobs. It cannot be controverted that the history of the Nigeria Labour Movement is in sync with the struggle to achieve the above stated goals.
The challenge before Labour and Government, then, is to develop some kind of social dialogue at all levels that promotes implementation of Government policies and programmes and also seamless partnership that will enhance effective service delivery and good governance.
We must make Akwa Ibom Project work by upholding the virtues of excellence, commitment, dedication and responsibility. It does not matter what position you are holding but how well you do your work. We must discharge our duties not as victims but as responsible Akwa Ibom workers. Labour must encourage collaboration on all issues for the benefit of our people. The world has since moved from pity to value.
Labour, in the broad sense, should see themselves as part and parcel of the governance matrix, and strive to add value. We should not see Government as one elaborate abstraction, or a distant behemoth, but see ourselves as part of government and share in Government vision. That way, we deepen the consciousness that policy must drive politics, not the other way round, and help build strong institutions for Labour and the society at large.
On our part, the State Government will continue to foster an atmosphere of peace and industrial harmony for increased productivity, wealth creation and the economic development of Akwa Ibom State.
While appreciating the Government of our dear State, ably led by Mr. Udom Gabriel Emmanuel for its support for Labour, I want to assure that the Ministry of Economic Development, Labour and Manpower Planning will continue to act as a bridge between the Government and Organised Labour in Akwa Ibom State. The Ministry will nurture trajectories of partnership with Labour in the larger interest of Akwa Ibom people.
Once again, I appreciate the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Trade Union Congress (TUC) and United Labour Congress (ULC), Akwa Ibom State Councils for making this occasion possible and wish you well in the 2019 Workers Day Celebration.
Thank you all and God bless.
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