…. I’m committed to your welfare – Administrator
Against the backdrop of an ongoing political crisis in Rivers State, both the suspended Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, and the Sole Administrator, Retired Vice Admiral Ibok-Ete Ibas, have sent messages to the state’s workforce as they join their counterparts nationwide in observing this year’s May Day, or Workers’ Day.
Fubara’s message specifically called on Rivers residents to stay hopeful and united during these challenging times, Persecondnews reports.
In a May Day statement issued on Thursday by his spokesman, Nelson Chukwudi, Fubara assured residents that “forces of justice, peace, and progress will prevail in the end in the state.”
Fubara commended the resilience of Rivers State’s workforce as the world marked Workers’ Day 2025, praising the state’s workers for their patriotism, integrity, and dedication to duty.
The embattled politician also commended President Bola Tinubu for advancing labour reforms.
He described workers as the “backbone of the state’s development and beacon of hope for a better future”.
Fubara said the 2025 Workers’ Day theme, “Ensuring Safety and Health at Work in a Changing Climate,” underscores the critical importance of protecting workers’ well-being amidst growing environmental and political challenges.
He said: “This theme underscores the urgent need to protect workers amid escalating environmental threats and socio-political uncertainties. It is a call to prioritise occupational safety and well-being as essential pillars for sustainable growth.”
He applauded “the efforts of the Federal Government, under the leadership of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, in promoting climate-conscious policies that support a healthier, safer working environment nationwide.”
Fubara reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to safeguarding workers’ rights, urging both public and private employers to adhere to labour laws and uphold workers’ dignity.
He also emphasized the need for ongoing improvements in working conditions, stressing that safe and decent work environments are both a legal requirement and a moral imperative.
“I offer prayers for divine wisdom and guidance for all leaders.Our administration remains committed to creating a work environment that nurtures dignity, opportunity, and prosperity for all.”
On his part, Ibas reaffirmed his commitment to enhancing the welfare of workers across the state.
Ibas gave the assurance during a meeting with leaders of organized labour unions at the Government House in Port Harcourt on Wednesday.
According to a statement by Hector Igbikiowubo, Senior Special Adviser on Media to the Administrator, the meeting provided a platform for open and constructive dialogue on key labour issues.
The statement highlighted key areas where the government is actively intervening, including timely payment of salaries and pensions, resolution of salary arrears, and approval for payment of newly employed workers at the Rivers State University Teaching Hospital and the judiciary.
He added that medical workers in local government areas would also receive their full wages, noting that the minimum wage was being implemented for all local government employees statewide.
The administrator also revealed that his administration is reviewing challenges associated with the contributory pension scheme ahead of the July 2025 deadline.
Additionally, Ibas announced plans to expand the fleet of intervention buses introduced to alleviate workers’ transportation challenges.
On capacity building, the administrator announced that specialized leadership training for senior civil servants would commence within two weeks.
He also disclosed that the government is exploring the implementation of the N32,000 consequential pension adjustment and working to settle outstanding gratuities owed to retirees.
While commending workers for their dedication, he urged continued collaboration with labour unions to foster lasting industrial harmony in the state.
Persecondnews had reported that Rivers State has been embroiled in political turmoil for nearly two years, fueled by a power struggle between former Governor Nyesom Wike and his successor, Fubara, culminating in a political impasse.
In response to the brewing crisis, Tinubu had on March 18 declared a state of emergency in the state, suspending Fubara, his deputy, and all members of the House of Assembly for six months.
Tinubu also appointed Ibas as the Sole Administrator for the state.
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