Governor Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta State on Friday, said that his administration is committed to the dignity of labour, describing the state’s workforce as the “engine room” of the economy and the backbone of governance.
Speaking in Asaba during the 2026 International Workers’ Day celebration, the governor addressed the theme: “Insecurity, Poverty – Bane of Decent Work,” calling for urgent collective action to restore the true meaning of employment by addressing systemic economic and security challenges.
Represented by the Deputy Governor, Monday Onyeme, he noted that insecurity and poverty remain the greatest threats to productivity, declaring that his administration remains committed to protecting the interests of workers and expanding opportunities for all.
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The governor appealed to the workers to remain dedicated and professional as the 2026 International Workers’ Day, is a fitting tribute to the dignity of labour and to the men and women whose daily efforts sustain the state and drive its progress.
Gov. Oborevwori applauded labour unions for the industrial harmony in the state, stating that in the past three years, the state has witnessed industrial peace.
“Let me reaffirm our unwavering commitment to the welfare and productivity of our public servants: we are implementing key measures, including the construction of additional residential quarters for permanent secretaries, prompt payment of salaries, and regular promotion exercises.
“We are also expanding training and capacity-building programmes while improving the work environment to boost morale, efficiency, and service delivery. Our goal is a modern, professional, and highly responsive public service.
“We have complemented these efforts with targeted recruitment, particularly in the education and medical sectors, to strengthen service delivery.
“We remain mindful of our retirees, whose service laid the foundation for today’s progress.
“To date, we have cleared pension benefits for state workers and cleared outstanding liabilities at the local government level. This is our commitment to dignity in retirement,’ he added.
Chairman of Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Goodluck Ofobruku and his counterpart in Trade Union Congress (TUC), Asekutu Wilson, in a joint address read by Ofobruku, said the theme for the celebration “speaks directly to the realities confronting millions of workers across our country and across the world.”
