Delta State Governor Sheriff Oborevwori on Thursday celebrated workers, describing them as the backbone of the government’s wheel of progress.
He spoke in Asaba, Delta State, during the 2025 Workers’ Day (May Day) celebration.
The governor, who was represented by his Deputy, Mr. Monday Onyeme, noted that Workers’ Day is not just a celebration, asserting that, “It is a moment to reflect on our shared journey and renewal of commitment to building a Delta State and Nigeria where every worker is valued, empowered and rewarded.”
Governor Oborevwori noted that the theme for this year’s celebration, “Reclaiming the Civic Space amid Economic Hardship,” is apt, as it serves as a powerful call to action and a rallying point for all.
He said, “Even in the face of adversity, we must reclaim our rights, amplify our voices, and engage fully in the civic processes that govern our lives.”
He urged workers to remain steadfast in their commitment to excellence and continue to work hand in hand, with unity and purpose, to achieve the Delta of their dreams.
“I join all Deltans and indeed Nigerians with immense pride and gratitude to celebrate our hardworking men and women on this Workers’ Day 2025.”
“You, the workers of Delta State, civil servants, teachers, healthcare professionals, artisans, farmers, and private sector employees, are the backbone of our progress; I salute you all.
“My administration will never take your sacrifices for granted, and we will keep pushing for policies that uplift you and your families.
“Workers’ Day is not just a celebration; it is a moment to reflect on our shared journey and renewal of our commitment to building a Delta State and Nigeria where every worker is valued, empowered, and rewarded.
“Let me acknowledge the challenges we face: global economic pressures, rising costs of living, and unemployment affect us all, but I assure you that my administration is working tirelessly to cushion these impacts.
“Since assuming office, my administration has placed workers at the heart of our M.O.R.E. Agenda, and we have taken steps to uplift the welfare of workers and ensure you thrive in an environment of dignity and opportunity.
“We have ensured prompt payment of salaries and pension, cleared pension backlogs, and introduced training programmes to boost your skills.
“We have upgraded workplaces, revitalised healthcare centres, and renovated schools to support your work.
“Our entrepreneurship initiatives have empowered artisans and small business owners, creating jobs and boosting incomes.
“Despite economic challenges, we are investing in infrastructure, roads, bridges, and markets to reduce transportation costs and boost trade.
“We are supporting agriculture to enhance food security to stabilise prices.
“These efforts are designed to make life better for every worker and their families.
“We have also introduced a whistle-blower policy with a dedicated phone line; this is a bold step to promote transparency and accountability in governance.
“This policy protects workers who expose wrongdoing, ensuring that your voices are heard and that public resources are used to serve the common good.
“This is governance that works for you, rooted in fairness and accountability.
“On this day of reflection and celebration, let us also remember those who have sacrificed for the dignity of labour. Let their struggles inspire us to strive for fairness, justice, and equity in our workplaces.
“As we move forward, I urge you to remain steadfast in your commitment to excellence.
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“Let us continue to work hand in hand, with unity and purpose, to achieve the Delta of our dreams, as my administration will never take your sacrifices for granted, and we will keep pushing for policies that uplift you and your families.
“Our doors remain open for dialogue, as we believe that collaboration with workers’ unions is the path to lasting progress.
“Let us march on, stronger together, towards a brighter and more prosperous future,” the governor stated
Earlier in a joint address, the Delta state chairman Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Messers Goodluck Ofobruku, and Martins Bolum, Chairman, Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC), called on workers to come together and unite as a community to reclaim their civic space despite the economic hardship faced by workers.
They noted that these challenges have tested the resilience and resolve of workers.
The event featured a colourful march past parade by different trade unions.