By AMAWU Cletus Albert Amawu.
GOVERNOR OTU SALUTES CROSS RIVER WORKERS, VOWS CONTINUED REFORMS ON 2025 WORKERS DAY CELEBRATION.
Cross River State Governor, Senator Prince Bassey Edet Otu has praised Cross River workers as the driving force of the state’s development, assuring them of his administration’s continued efforts to improve their welfare.
Governor Otu, who was represented by his Deputy, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey Ph.D., describe the workers as the “heartbeat” and “engine room” of societal growth and governance; reaffirming his administration’s commitment to improving workers’ welfare, dignity, and long-term sustainability in the public sector.
In his stirring address, Governor Otu paid glowing tribute to the state’s workforce—from teachers and nurses to street cleaners and artisans—calling them the “unsung heroes” whose everyday efforts silently shape the fabric of the state. He acknowledged the many challenges facing workers, including delayed promotions and pensions, and assured them that his administration is actively pursuing lasting reforms aimed at fairness, recognition, and a brighter future for all.
In a solidarity message delivered on his behalf by the Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Odey, during the 2025 Workers’ Day celebration, the Governor said the occasion was not merely a date on the calendar but a tribute to the resilience, discipline, and sacrifices of the labour force.
“From classrooms and clinics to markets and ministries, the fingerprints of our workers are everywhere,” he said. “You are the unseen architects of our progress, and I say thank you on behalf of a grateful government and people.”
Governor Otu acknowledged the longstanding concerns of workers, including delayed promotions, pension arrears, and the need for a more supportive working environment. He assured them that his administration has already begun tackling these issues through reforms in public service structure, timely salary payments, and efforts to clear gratuity backlogs.
Highlighting his government’s forward-looking approach, he emphasised investment in digital literacy, workforce retraining, and merit-based advancement, stressing that future competitiveness depends not just on effort but also on innovation and adaptability.
The Governor also commended Labour Unions for their constructive engagement, calling for continued collaboration based on mutual respect. He paid special tribute to women in the workforce for their dual roles at home and in society, promising policies that protect their rights and support their aspirations.
To young job seekers, he preached the dignity of honest work, and to retirees, he pledged that their years of service would be honoured with respect and timely entitlements.
“Let us recommit ourselves to unity, excellence, and innovation, hence, “together, we will build a Cross River where work is not just a task, but a noble calling,” he concluded.
