As Nigeria commemorated Workers' Day on May 1, 2025, Enugu State Governor, Dr. Peter Mbah, extended heartfelt appreciation to the state's workforce, acknowledging their unwavering dedication and pivotal role in the state's development.
Celebrating the Backbone of Enugu's Progress
In his May Day message, Governor Mbah lauded the resilience and commitment of Enugu's workers, emphasizing their integral contribution to the state's transformation agenda. He stated:
"Today, we honor the strength, resilience, and sacrifice of our workforce. Your dedication to duty, even in challenging times, inspires our drive to build a better, more prosperous Enugu State."
He further highlighted the administration's focus on innovation, infrastructure, and inclusive growth, reassuring workers that their welfare remains a top priority.
Proactive Measures to Enhance Workers' Welfare
Governor Mbah's administration has implemented several initiatives aimed at improving the living standards of Enugu's workforce:
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Approval of ₦80,000 Minimum Wage: In a significant move, the governor approved a new minimum wage of ₦80,000 for state workers, effective October 2024. This decision underscores the administration's commitment to enhancing workers' welfare and acknowledging their role in driving economic growth.
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Cash Awards to Cushion Economic Challenges: To mitigate the effects of economic hardships, especially following fuel subsidy removal, the government introduced monthly cash awards ranging from ₦10,000 to ₦25,000 for state workers, continuing until April 2024.
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Expansion of Social Register: Recognizing the need to support vulnerable populations, the state expanded its social register from 43,000 to 260,000 individuals, facilitating targeted cash transfers and social interventions.
Infrastructure and Development Projects
Beyond immediate welfare measures, Governor Mbah's administration is investing in long-term projects to improve the quality of life for all residents:
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Smart Schools and Healthcare Centers: The construction of 260 model primary healthcare centers and 260 smart schools, each with accompanying teachers' quarters, aims to enhance education and healthcare delivery across the state.
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Economic Growth and Investment: The administration's efforts have led to a remarkable increase in the state's Internally Generated Revenue (IGR), which rose from ₦26 billion in 2022 to ₦144 billion in 2024, with projections to exceed ₦200 billion by the end of 2025.
Workers' Endorsement and Appreciation
The proactive steps taken by Governor Mbah have not gone unnoticed. Leaders of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) in Enugu have expressed their gratitude:
"We are grateful for the announcement because there was no 'war' to get this. We did not come begging and crying or shouting and agitating. It was out of the abundance of your heart that you decided to greet us with this big news," said Comrade Fabian Nwigbo, NLC Chairman.
Comrade Benneth Asogwa, TUC Chairman, added:
"You have made us today to understand that all that you said during the election were no political promises. We have come to realize that you meant business."
Looking Ahead
Governor Mbah's administration continues to prioritize the welfare of Enugu's workforce, recognizing them as essential partners in the state's journey toward sustainable development. As the state implements these initiatives, the commitment to building a prosperous and inclusive Enugu remains steadfast.
For more information on Governor Mbah's initiatives and the state's development plans, visit the official Enugu State Government website.
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