By Noah Ocheni, Lokoja
The Kogi state Governor, Ahmed Usman Ododo on Wednesday in Lokoja promised to implement policies that will promote the right of workers and ensure they get the best in the Country.
Governor Ododo who made the promise at the celebration of 2024 “May Day” in Lokoja outlined some of the moves by his administration to ameliorate the suffering of workers amidst the economic hardship in the state.
Governor Usman Ododo lauded the tireless effort of workers for their commitment for excellence despite the challenges in the Country and promised to look into the request of workers for improved wage award stressing that the implementation will soon commence in the state.
He commended the labour unions in Kogi state for their robust relationship with his administration, assuring his administration commitment in protecting the rights and dignity of workers.
On security, Governor Ododo said his administration is winning the war against crimes and criminalities.
The Kogi State Chairman, Nigeria Labour Congress,(NLC) Comrade Gabriel Amari in his speech pointed out that, the current N30,000 National Minimum Wage falls short of meeting basic needs of workers in the prevailing market conditions of the Country.
“We advocate for the immediate implementation of a Wage Award totaling around N35,000 in Kogi State. This adjustment is not only fair but also urgent, given the relentless rise in the costs of goods and services, which continuously erodes the purchasing power of Workers.”
“Until the long-awaited negotiations for a new minimum wage are concluded and put into effect, the Wage Award would serve as a temporary relief for Workers grappling with the current economic hardships.”
He enjoined Ododo to demonstrate his commitment to workers’ welfare by emulating other states that have already heeded the recommendations of the President regarding the payment of Wage Award to Nigerian Workers.
To worsen the plight of Kogi Workers, Amari contend with the non-cash backing of promotions and annual increments for many years at both the State and Local Government levels. Failure to implement existing agreements for the payment of Leave Bonuses that further compounds their challenges.
Amari called for Full implementation of Consolidated Medical Salary Structure (CONMESS) for all Health Workers. Provision of affordable owner-occupier housing for Workers. Provision of operational vehicles, financial interventions and recruitment for Parastatals and Ministries especially: Kogi Radio, Sports Councils, Graphic Newspaper and Kogi State Fire Service.
“The constant threats of violence, kidnappings, and extortion deter both local and international investors, resulting in a decline in job opportunities, hindering business growth, and limiting economic progress.” He said.
