By Ifeanyi Olannye

Gov. Sheriff Oborevwori of Delta, on Thursday in Asaba, described workers as the backbone of government’s wheel of progress.

The governor made the commendation during the 2025 Workers’ Day celebration.

Represented by his deputy, Sir Monday Onyeme, the governor said, “Workers’ Day is not just a celebration, it is a moment to reflect on shared journey and renewal of commitment to building a state and Nigeria where every worker is valued, empowered and rewarded.”

Oborevwori noted that, the theme for this year’s celebration, “Reclaiming the Civic Space in the Midst of Economic Hardship,” was apt, it serves as a powerful call to action and rallying point for all.

“Even in the face of adversity, we must reclaim our rights, amplify our voices and engage fully in the civic processes that govern our lives,” he said.

He urged workers to remain steadfast in their commitment to excellence and continue to work hand in hand, with unity and purpose, to achieve the Delta of their dreams.

He urged Nigerians to show gratitude, appreciate and celebrate hardworking men and women on this Workers’ Day.

“You, the workers of Delta State, civil servants, teachers, healthcare professionals, artisans, farmers and private sector employees, are the backbone of our progress; I salute you all.

“My administration will never take your sacrifices for granted and we will keep pushing for policies that uplift you and your families,” he said.

He acknowledged the challenges the people faced; global economic pressures, rising costs of living and unemployment which had affected all.

He assured that his administration was working tirelessly to cushion those challenges that impact the workers and all citizens in the state.

“Since assuming office, my administration has placed workers at the heart of our M.O.R.E. Agenda and we have taken steps to uplift the welfare of workers and ensure you thrive in an environment of dignity and opportunity.

“We have ensured prompt payment of salaries and pension, cleared pension backlogs and introduced training programmes to boost your skills.

“We have upgraded workplaces, revitalized healthcare centres and renovated schools to support your work,” he said.

He said that the government’s policy thrust was targeted to protect the workers and ensure good governance that works for the workers, rooted in fairness and accountability.

He urged them to march on, stronger together, towards a brighter and more prosperous future.

Earlier in a joint address, the Delta State Chairman of Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Comrade Goodluck Ofobruku, and Comrade Martins Bolum, Chairman, Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC), called on workers to come together and unite as a community to reclaim their civic space in spite of the economic hardship faced by workers.

The chairmen noted that these challenges have tested the resilience and resolve of workers.

The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN) reports that the event featured colourful march past parade by different trade unions. (NAN) (www.nannews.ng).

Edited by Benson Iziama