By Felix Ekwu
Governor Ifeanyi Okowa has assured Deltans that with the help of God, he will not take any decision that will be detrimental to the future of the state.
Speaking today during this year’s Workers Day celebration in the state held at St. Patrick’s College, Asaba, Okowa said: “Despite the tight financial environment, we will strive to continually meet our obligations to the people of Delta State as and when due.
“All we expect from you in return is greater dedication, commitment and patience while remaining supportive of the government of the day.”
The Governor who was represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Chief Patrick Ukah, at the celebration with the theme: “Labour, Politics And The Quest For Good Governance And Development In Nigeria”, noted the tremendous contributions of workers in the state towards the success of his administration and appealed for their sustained support.
“Today is the International Workers’ Day, which serves as a reminder of the important contributions made to all societies by the working class and to celebrate union leaders who were committed and inspired others to fight for their right to improved working conditions.
“Workers’ Day is celebrated globally to recognize the efforts of millions of workers in creating wealth in society. They make our work easy and work tirelessly to contribute to the prosperity of society. So, on this day, we appreciate all the workers around the world for their efforts and hard work. I celebrate you today because the economy of Delta State is built on your efforts.
“Here in Delta State, I believe our workers have cause to celebrate because we have largely kept our promises to our workers. We implement promotion packages and employ new workers where necessary. Presently, we are making concerted efforts to raise money to pay the backlog of pensioners’ entitlements. As you all are aware, we are currently engaged in delivering on a number of major projects geared towards making Delta, a truly great State.
“Let me point out that our workers have a huge role to play in the nurturing and sustenance of our dreams and aspirations. You are the engine room of administrative procedures and the bureaucracy. It behoves you to continue to key into our policy direction to render services in line with the vision of a Stronger Delta State. An efficient, proactive and responsive civil service is an integral component of our dreams for a stronger state.
“We are on a steady march to our vision of creating a virile and stronger Delta State. The focus of my administration now is to lay the much-needed foundation for an economically strong State. We will continue to highlight skills acquisition.
“There is no doubt that skills acquisition remains the most potent antidote to unemployment. We have also continued to embark on enormous infrastructure development projects in all sectors across the State. This administration has virtually touched every nook and cranny of the state, positively.
“There is no doubt that the last few years have been some of the most difficult periods in the history of our country. Despite the numerous challenges, especially with galloping inflation, we still need to maintain a positive spirit and resolve to make our country the envy of the world. We can only achieve prosperity and progress through peace and unity. In spite of obvious challenges, let us resolve to work towards a more secure and united country.
“I want to thank the leadership of the NLC, TUC, their affiliates and all other labour and consultative unions in the State for their understanding and cooperation, including harmonious working relationship with the Delta State Government. The journey to make Delta great is a collective one and it is expected that all hands will continue to be on deck.
“I call on all Deltans to join us in the task of bringing development to our dear State. We appreciate the cooperation of the people in helping to attain the modest progress we have made. Let me assure all workers in the State that their interests mean so much to the administration. We will not let you down,” the governor assured.
