Obio/Akpor Boss Promises Welfare Packages For Workers

To promote harmonious working relationship between the workers and the political leadership in Obio/Akpor Local Government Area, the chairman of the council, Mr. George Ariolu has promised to improve on the welfare of workers.
Mr. Ariolu gave this assurance during the 2023 May Day celebration which held at the council headquarters at Rumuodomaya.
He told the workers, “I have heard and noted some of your demands which we shall take steps to address while assuring you of our continued commitment to improving on your welfare packages and better future”.
He pointed out that the role of workers in the development of a nation could not be over-emphasized. “In Nigeria, the important role being played by workers and unionists for the development of our dear nation can never be over-emphasized. You have been at the forefront of several struggles for the improvement on the welfare of the Nigerian workers and people’s right.
“From the colonial era and even in the dark days of military dictatorship leading to the democracy that we now have, the Nigerian workers have engaged on strikes and protests to challenge unpopular actions and decisions, including the sudden and unilateral transfer of the burden of payment for the corruption and inefficiency in the downstream subsector of the petroleum sector, to the Nigerian masses in the form of fuel subsidy removal.”
Ariolu, who was represented at the event by the council secretary, Mr. Ije Okabie, said that since the local government is the closest tier of government to the people, there was the need for the federal government to allocate and allot more statutory funds to local government councils.
He assured that his administration is not only committed to serving God and humanity, but will also ensure a cordial working relationship with the workers of the council area.
“For us as a unique local government area, our administration is vehemently committed to serving God and humanity. We want to assure you that we will maintain cordial relationship with the works of our LGA. “Unequivocally, we want to say that our workers are enjoying more robust and crisis-free relationship, which of course, has precipitated increase in productivity and efficiency.
“What the above explains in simple terms is that we have ensured prompt and regular payment of salaries. We have also provided conducive working environment. In fact, we have made policies that are workers friendly, which have accelerated the inclusion of our workers in decision making process in this LGA.
“Our stance here is that instead of maintaining the standard we will keep improving”
According to him, the newly constructed two-storey office complex primarily occupied by workers in the council is a sure step towards improving their working conditions as it has taken care of the challenges of inadequate office space for workers.
Earlier in her address, the chairperson of the National Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE) in the LGA, Comrade (Dr.) Gladys Amadi said that every May 1st is not only a day for workers to celebrate but also a day to reflect on their sacrifice and contributions.
She said Labour remains unarguably an important element in any policy programme and project propagated for national development while the Workers Day affords employees an ample opportunity to take stock and appraisal of their working relationship with the leadership of the country.
Dr. Amadi pointed out that the staff of Obio/Akpor Council have been faced with some and challenges.
“Sir, it is a fact that for years, members of our staff have not been promoted or enjoyed increment of extra duty or even the first 28 days allowances. It is troubling as individuals and workers because we aim to rise in our ranks and to reap the fruits of our labour.
“In addition to this request, Sir, it is our plea for increment of salaries and well as the first 28 days allowance for those deserving and provision to be created for members of staff who put in over time day-in-and out.
“Besides, it is pertinent to mention that some of our staff are yet to receive their salaries following the issue that occurred last year where multiple salaries were paid. We pray that directives will be given to totally resolve the issue once and for all,” Dr. (Mrs.) Amadi pleaded.