Member representing Isoko North and Isoko South Federal Constituency, Hon. Jonathan Ukodhiko has sought for improved welfare for Nigerian workers as they join their counterparts the world over to mark this year’s International Workers’ Day.
Ukodhiko, in a statement on Wednesday by his Media Aide, Ajiri-Oghene Oreh said, “it is another opportunity to celebrate and honour every Nigerian worker, who have contributed to the nation’s development by way of labour”
According to him, “as we all know, the ‘International Workers’ Day’ was conceived to draw particular attention to the plights and the needs of the working class.”
House of Representatives member noted that, “This year’s May Day celebration marks the 43rd anniversary of workers’ day as a public holiday in Nigeria.
He urged governments at all levels in the country should take responsibility of the welfare of the people, which is the primary purpose of government.
“Yes, the issue of the Nigerian workers‘ welfare should be taken as top priority by government and institutions, and it should be addressed more decisively and urgently for improved productivity.
“We must think critically and creatively come up with ways to provide massive jobs opportunities through revamping of old and the establishing of new factories and industries, improved electricity supply, and the clampdown of high interest rates and devaluation of the naira.”
The Isoko Federal lawmaker described the Nigerian workers as wealth creators, saying, “they remain the engine rooms for development in the nation.
“I must salute the Nigerian workers for their resilience, sacrifices, and dedication to the growth of the nation despite worsening rate of inflation which has pushed them into poverty and untold hardship.”
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Hon. Ukodhiko who is the Deputy Chairman, House Committee on Science and Technology, also commended the Nigerian Labour Congress, Trade Union Congress, and United Labour Congress for championing the cause of workers in the public and private sectors.
“However, I must urge the various labour bodies to work collaboratively, by complementing each other in the agitations for enhanced welfare packages and good working conditions for the Nigerian workers.”
Ukodhiko who is a former Delta State Energy Commissioner, advised workers in the country to be more committed and steadfast, and eschew bribery, stealing, assuring of remediation of the conditions of the working class.
“As we celebrate, be assured, I’ll sponsor workers-friendly bills that will improve the working conditions for workers in line with the internationally recognized standards as approved by the International Labour Organization (ILO).
“I’m a strong believer for the well-being and welfare of workers. I’ll promote policies and support efforts that are aimed at ensuring workers in the country are well catered for,” Hon. Ukodhiko added
