By Bassey Anthony, Uyo

Akwa Ibom State Governor Udom Emmanuel has lauded workers in the State as they joined their counterparts globally in celebrating the 2021 workers day, describing them as the engine room of his development and completion agenda

The governor gave the commendation on Saturday at Ibom hall grounds in an event commemorating the 2021 workers day with the theme, ‘Covid-19 pandemic, social and economic crisis: challenges for jobs, social protection and peoples’ welfare.’

The governor, who was represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Dr. Emmanuel Ekuwem explained that successes recorded so far in his administration were as a result of industrial harmony provided by the State organised labour, noting that, such gave him the morale to ensure the welfare of workers even with limited resources available.

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According to him, “we join billions of workers all over the world to celebrate your passion, dedication and unbridled patriotism. May Day, for decades symbolized a day of deep appreciation of all you have done in furtherance of our vision of growth, development and peaceful coexistence.

“The successes we have achieved for almost six years was as a result of our fruitful relationship. Whenever we’ve had moments of disagreement which is of course expected in the course of human interactions and relations, you always allow deep sense of circumspection and shared interest to guide resolutions of issues.

“I have always said civil servants are the engine room of our development and success and we  have correspondingly done all we could with the limited resources towards addressing your problems and welfare. For six years we have paid salaries consistently and even in challenging circumstances and in the face of other competing interests.”

Speaking earlier, the Chairperson of Nigeria Labour Congress, Akwa Ibom State chapter, Comrade Sunny James described this year’s theme as apt as Covid-19 has disrupted the socio-economic order in the society.

The Chairman of Trade Union Congress in the State, Comrade Dominic Abang said Workers’ Day should be a moment of sober reflection where the welfare of workers should be looked into and be improved upon.