The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) in Ebonyi State has expressed deep appreciation to Governor Francis Ogbonna Nwifuru for addressing long-standing pension arrears owed to retirees, some dating as far back as 1996.
This commendation came during the 2025 Workers’ Day celebration held at Pa Ngele Oruta Township Stadium, Abakaliki. Delivering the address on behalf of organized labour, the state NLC Chairman, Comrade Ogugua Egwu, acknowledged the governor’s bold move in clearing entitlements that had lingered for nearly two decades.
In his speech, Comrade Egwu listed critical challenges affecting the workforce and appealed to the governor for prompt intervention. He cited the need for additional compressed natural gas (CNG) buses to ease workers’ transportation difficulties, more housing estates to address accommodation problems, upward review of pensions in line with national standards, and better equipping of government offices within the Centenary City.
Other demands included the full reinstatement of salaries for staff at the Ebonyi State College of Education in Ikwo. He noted that a monthly allocation of N25 million would significantly address their financial shortfall. The NLC also urged the government to reinstate the bulk payment of leave allowances in line with the 2024 New National Minimum Wage.
The labour union further commended the governor for reinstating Comrade Ikechukwu Igwenyi and his colleagues at Ebonyi State University (EBSU), who had been suspended for union-related activities for over three years. According to the union, this act of justice will remain memorable to the entire workforce.
Additionally, the NLC appreciated the inclusion of consequential salary adjustments in the 2025 state budget, describing it as a reflection of the governor’s goodwill and commitment to workers’ welfare.
“We, as your people and workers of this state, request continued engagement and dialogue to ensure that our needs are heard and met. Your openness and accessibility have made the civic space more inclusive for the labour force,” Comrade Egwu stated.
He praised Governor Nwifuru’s human-centered leadership style, highlighting his administration’s achievements—payment of gratuities, implementation of the minimum wage, provision of toll-free buses, civil servant housing projects, and scholarship opportunities for Ebonyians, both locally and abroad.
“Governor Nwifuru has shown a rare sense of empathy and responsiveness to the plights of workers. He is not just committed to governance; he is redefining leadership by action,” the NLC said.
Organized Labour concluded by pledging continued collaboration with the state government to advance the rights of workers and ensure that Ebonyi’s civic environment remains inclusive and progressive for all.
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