Workers’ Day: Oborevwori Reaffirms Commitment To Workers’ Welfare
DELTA State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to protecting workers’ welfare, describing the state’s workforce as the “engine room” of the economy and the backbone of public governance.
Speaking in Asaba during the 2026 International Workers’ Day celebration, the Governor—represented by his Deputy, Sir Monday Onyeme—addressed the theme “Insecurity, Poverty – Bane of Decent Work,” stressing the need for urgent action to strengthen economic stability and workplace security.
Oborevwori noted that insecurity and poverty remain the most significant threats to productivity and decent employment nationwide.
“As your Governor, I remain committed to protecting the interests of workers and expanding opportunities for all,” he said. “Your resilience and dedication continue to sustain our state and drive our progress.”
He praised workers for their discipline and professionalism, stating that the challenges highlighted in this year’s theme require collective solutions, including stronger security measures, sustainable job creation, fair wages, social protection, and investment in skills development.
The Governor highlighted the state’s industrial harmony in the last three years, commending the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Trade Union Congress (TUC), and affiliate unions for maintaining peace and cooperation throughout the period.
Reviewing his administration’s performance under the M.O.R.E Agenda, Oborevwori said Delta State has continued to prioritise civil service reform and workers’ welfare, including; construction of new residential quarters for Permanent Secretaries, prompt payment of salaries, regular promotion exercises, expanded training and capacity-building programmes; and improved work environments across ministries.
The Governor emphasised targeted recruitment in the education and health sectors, ensuring strengthened service delivery across the state.
On retirement benefits, he stated that the administration had cleared outstanding pension arrears for state workers and addressed long-standing liabilities at the local government level.
“This is our commitment to dignity in retirement,” he added.
Oborevwori also highlighted economic empowerment programmes, including the M.O.R.E Grant Scheme and the D-CARES programme, which have supported hundreds of thousands of traders, artisans, and small business owners.
He reaffirmed the government’s investment in education through bursaries and targeted scholarships.
“No child of Delta State should be denied opportunity due to financial constraints,” he said.
He stressed that true development must reflect improved living conditions and human capital:
“A well-paid worker, a secure retiree, an empowered entrepreneur, and an educated child—these are the true measures of progress.”
In a joint address, Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) Chairman, Comrade Goodluck Ofobruku, and Trade Union Congress (TUC) Chairman, Comrade Asekutu Wilson, said this year’s Workers’ Day theme reflects the harsh realities facing workers across Nigeria and the world.
