Celebrating May Day: Governor Otti’s Commitment to Workers’ Welfare*
*By Onyinyechi Obi*
May 1st, known globally as International Workers’ Day or May Day, is a time to honor the dedication, resilience, and contributions of workers who drive the engines of economies and societies. It’s a day set aside to recognize the invaluable role that labor plays in shaping our communities and to reaffirm commitments to improving the welfare and rights of workers.
In Abia State, this year’s Workers’ Day holds special significance. Under the visionary leadership of Governor Dr. Alex Otti, the state has witnessed a transformative approach to labor relations and workers’ welfare, setting a benchmark for others to emulate.
From the onset of his administration, Governor Otti made it clear that the well-being of workers would be a top priority. True to his promise, many positive changes have taken place in the past year. Workers in Abia are now enjoying better pay, timely salaries, improved workplaces, and more respect and attention than ever before.
A key milestone in this journey has been the approval and implementation of a ₦70,000 minimum wage. While some states are still struggling to adjust salaries, Abia set the pace by ensuring fair and timely payment across all worker categories. This bold move sends a clear message: in Abia, every worker counts.
Further reinforcing this commitment, salaries and pensions are now consistently paid on or before the 28th of every month, a level of reliability that has brought peace of mind to thousands of families across the state. Governor Otti has also institutionalized the 13th-month bonus, providing workers with an extra boost to celebrate the end of the year with dignity and less financial strain.
Abia workers are also seeing real changes in their work environment. Offices that were once in poor shape have been rebuilt and upgraded. The secretariat at Ogwurube Layout, for example, now has clean water, good lighting, and proper fencing. The reopening of the Nnamdi Azikiwe
Secretariat and the completion of the JAAC Building show that the government is serious about treating workers with respect.
Furthermore, Governor Otti has built a new relationship with labor unions, one based on respect and open dialogue. When the Judiciary Staff Union (JUSUN) had concerns, the government listened, acted swiftly, and signed an agreement that restored trust and improved morale. Instead of conflict, workers now find cooperation.
In addition to better pay and offices, the government is also helping workers improve their skills. Training sessions are now a regular part of public service in Abia. These programs are designed to help workers perform better and keep up with the demands of modern governance.
Healthcare has not been left out. The government recently launched the Formal Sector Health Insurance Scheme to ensure that workers in both the public and private sectors can access affordable medical care. New salary structures have also been approved for health workers, known as the Abia State Health Workers Salary Scale (ASHWOSS).
Indeed, it is important to remember that Workers’ Day is not only about civil or public servants. It is a day to celebrate everyone who works and contributes to the growth of Abia State, artisans, traders, farmers, private school teachers, commercial drivers, and small business owners. Governor Otti’s commitment to the welfare of Abians goes beyond the walls of government offices.
This is why his administration is also focused on building quality roads across the state, making it easier for people and goods to move safely and efficiently. This boosts business and reduces stress for those working in the informal sector.
In addition, the introduction of compulsory free basic education is a life-changing step. It eases the burden on working parents and opens the doors of opportunity for thousands of children.
As we celebrate Workers’ Day in Abia, one thing is clear: this is a state where workers are not only remembered, they are respected, supported, and empowered. Governor Otti has set a new standard, showing what can happen when leaders truly value the people who build and serve every day.
