Connect with us

Akwa Ibom

How Umo Eno Set The Legacy Of The Worker’s Friendly Governor

Published

on

Umo Eno

How Umo Eno Set The Legacy Of The Worker’s Friendly Governor

How Umo Eno set the legacy of the worker’s friendly governor. It was Franklin D. Roosevelt, the 32nd President of the United States, who famously said, “The test of good government is its concern for the welfare of the people.” This is the guiding principle of Governor Umo Eno of Akwa Ibom State.

Living up to this strong commitment to put the people first, and in an intentional demonstration of people-centric leadership style, Governor Eno has introduced welfarist policies that place the administration in its true humanitarian mould. And workers in Akwa Ibom State are prime beneficiaries, including those who have retired from service.

From approving the new minimum wage of 80 thousand Naira to paying backlogs of benefits and empowering persons and sectors, the administration has solidified its reputation for prioritizing public service and fostering inclusive growth, and labour and favour are beyond pun and rhyme but synonymous in Akwa Ibom State. A plethora of evidence abounds.

Governor Umo Eno has not just approved the payment of a new minimum wage of N80,000 for public workers in Akwa Ibom, effective January 2025, he has done that with retrospective adjustments from November 2024. This monumental decision ensures that workers can meet their financial needs amidst rising economic pressures. This is a reflection of the welfarism disposition of the governor, deservingly earning him a workers-friendly governor.

Comrade Etido Solomon, a public affairs analyst, noted that, “In comparison to other states, Akwa Ibom’s new minimum wage places it in the top tier of worker-friendly states in Nigeria, surpassing the federal government’s benchmark of N70,000 and reflecting its commitment to worker welfare.” With this new N80,000 minimum wage, Akwa Ibom showcases Governor Umo Eno’s dedication to ensuring the financial well-being of public workers, securing its place as one of the leading worker-friendly states in Nigeria.

This joyous development follows the submission of a meticulous staff verification report by Elder Effiong Essien, the Head of Service, which was conducted to ensure transparency and eliminate discrepancies in the payroll system.

For Governor Eno, it is not just about paying the minimum wage, but about addressing the overall welfare of the people, including retired workers. He is demonstrated this commitment for the umpteenth time, never relenting in making workers happy, not tired of making retired workers excited.

Phoebe Samuel, an Uyo-based retired civil servant, stated, “ We have a Governor who is not looking at payment of pensions and gratuities as charity , but a right of retirees earned through years of dedicated service and sacrifice. He is a leader that values retirees and has demonstrated that that he is a son a public servant who worked , retired and often went through agonies of owed pensions and benefits”

Governor Eno clearly values retirees and is committed to their welfare. Little wonder that he has already paid N47 billion of the N97 billion backlog of gratuities and other entitlements owed to public workers, pledging to continue to offset further. This historic intervention brings relief to retirees and active public servants who had long awaited their dues.

By prioritizing these payments, the administration addresses decades-long grievances and restores trust in government, as well as making the civil service attractive, lucrative and rewarding.

Another remarkable gesture by Governor Umo Eno is the payment of N1.2 billion as wardrobe allowances for teachers in Akwa Ibom State . This initiative not only improves the working conditions of teachers but also underscores the Governor’s dedication to fostering education and empowering educators who shape the future of the state. His belief is that no society grows beyond its investment in the education sector. Hence, developing the infrastructure should be placed side by side with the welfare of teachers who are major stakeholders in the education sector.

To further boost morale and operational efficiency, the administration has provided Sports Utility Vehicles (SUVs) to all Permanent Secretaries in the state. This move equips senior officials with the necessary resources to perform their duties effectively, while also recognizing their invaluable contributions to the state’s development. This is a major spur to optimum productivity, which will be in the best interest of the State.

Pastor Eno’s administration continues to set a benchmark for worker-centric governance. By addressing critical issues such as wage increments, delayed entitlements, and improved welfare for educators and senior officials, the Governor has positioned Akwa Ibom as a model of effective leadership and an exemplar for good governance.

The Governor’s actions have been met with widespread acclaim from public workers, labour unions, and other stakeholders. Many have praised his administration for delivering on promises and implementing policies that significantly improve the quality of life for workers.

In the words of Ubong John, a teacher , “Governor Umo Eno has proven to be a leader who listens to the needs of his people. His policies have given us hope and confidence in the government.”

Umo Eno

Umo Eno

The Pastor- Governor’s benevolence towards public workers in the State is a testament to his vision and love for the people .By approving one of the highest minimum wages in the country, payment of backlogs of benefits, empowering teachers, and providing essential tools to senior officials, his administration has set a new standard for governance.

As Akwa Ibom continues to reap the benefits of these initiatives, Governor Umo Eno’s legacy as a transformative and compassionate leader is solidified, earning him a place in the annals of the state’s history.

Post Script: Verification, Etal

The Payroll Verification exercise ordered by Governor Umo Eno revealed that out of 55,120 , 52.177 persons turned up. 2, 943 did not show up. From the verified numbers, 6, 193 have issues with the verification. So far, 45,984 have been cleared for payment of the new minimum wage with effect from November 1 , 2024.

Meanwhile, Governor UmonEno has given a grace of one month by extending the tenure of the verification committee to allow those who have had genuine reasons for not being available to show up whilst the pensions register is being verified and cleaned up.

There could not have been a better way for welfarism in him to find expression as a workers-friendly governor!

Akwa Ibom

Workers’ Day: Akwa Ibom Gov Announces N160m Support Fund, Gifts Labour Leaders Cars

Published

on

By

Akwa Ibom

Workers’ Day: Akwa Ibom Gov Announces N160m Support Fund, Gifts Labour Leaders Cars

Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pst. Umo Eno has announced a support fund of N160 million for Akwa Ibom State Workers.

The Governor also gifted the Chairman of Trade Union Congress (TUC) Comrade Kingsley Akpan and the State Chairperson of the Joint Public Sector Negotiation Committee, Comrade Kingsley Ekong brand new Cars in commemoration of the day.

The Deputy Governor, Sen. Akon Eyakenyi who represented the Governor at the event, said it was a commitment by Gov Eno to supporting Akwa Ibom State Workers as their dedication, resilience and productivity have significantly boosted productivity in the state’s overall development.

She described Akwa Ibom as one of the most peaceful states in the country, attributing the steady influx of organisations and groups holding meetings in the state to its safety and stability, noting that recent commendations came in yesterday as the Inspector General of Police, Tinju Disu and the Chief of Air Staff, Air Marshall Sunday Kelvin further underscored the Government’s investments in security and peaceful coexistence.

“Just yesterday the IGP of Police and Chief Air Staff applauded the Gov for the peaceful and decent nature of the state.

“ And this speaks to the commitment and investment made by the Governor of the state.”

Eyakenyi, however, urged the Trade Union Congress to acknowledge the administration’s efforts in maintaining security and empowering youths, stressing that such initiatives had significantly contributed to the calm atmosphere in the state.

She disclosed that the leadership of the Nigeria Labour Congress and TUC had earlier paid a courtesy visit to the Governor to present key issues affecting workers, noting that the Governor promptly constituted a committee to address the concerns within one month.

She also paid tribute to the outgoing NLC Chairman, Comrade Sunny James, praising his patriotism and commitment to the growth of the state as she expressed optimism that he would continue to contribute to development even after his tenure.

Eyakenyi announced further that the state government was rewarding Comrade Akpan and Mr. Ekong, with official vehicles to support their work. She reiterated the government’s commitment to worker’s welfare, including the payment of gratuities, revealing that about N82 billion had been paid out of over N100 billion.

She added that the government had also provided housing for civil servants through a transparent raffle system and sustained training programmes to enhance manpower development, pledging that worker’s welfare would remain a top priority of the administration.

The Special Adviser to the Governor on Labour Matters, Sir Udo Kierian, in his tone setting, said May Day remained a significant occasion set aside globally to celebrate hardworking employees across both public and private sectors, noting that the state workforce had every reason to celebrate in view of the government’s favourable policies.

He stated that since assuming office in May 2023, the governor had carried workers along in governance, adding that the administration’s vision and mission had been effectively interpreted through various ministries and government offices.

Also, the NLC State Chairperson, Comrade Sunny James, commended the administration of Governor Eno for efforts in promoting workers, and sued for a more speedy process in implementation.

He also appreciated the Governor for paying gratuities till date.

“We have a leader who loves workers and is gradually clearing gratuities,” he said.

James described his tenure which began in April of 2019 as “not an easy one” noting that despite challenges, his leadership has recorded significant strides in representing workers’ interest.

He urged workers to remain committed and united as he bows out honourably in few months.

He further noted that even in moments of disagreement, Governor Eno had consistently demonstrated a willingness to find common ground, resolving issues amicably.

Akwa Ibom

Akwa Ibom Governor

In their various solidarity messages, Head of Civil Service, Mrs. Elise Peter, Speaker, House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Udeme Otong, Chief Judge represented by Justice Effiong Effiong, TUC Chairman Mr. Akpan, State Chairperson Joint Public Sector Negotiation Committee, Comrade Akpan, commended the Governor for his commitment to worker’s welfare, noting that despite occasional disagreements, the governor had always sought for ways of bettering the lots for workers.

They also acknowledged his administration’s efforts in promoting workers, mobilising contractors back to sites, and gradually clearing outstanding gratuities, while expressing optimism that the existing cooperation between labour and government would further enhance development and industrial harmony in the state.

Continue Reading

Akwa Ibom

NAF Helicopter Landing Inspires Youths, Strengthens Bonds In Akwa Ibom Community

Published

on

By

NAF

NAF Helicopter Landing Inspires Youths, Strengthens Bonds In Akwa Ibom Community

A routine flight turned into an unforgettable moment in Nsit Ibom as Nigeria marked Workers’ Day. The Nigerian Air Force (NAF) demonstrated its people-focused service during a routine liaison mission within the Niger Delta area.

While en route on the mission, the crew executed a precautionary landing at a primary school football field in Nsit Ibom LGA, in line with standard safety procedures.

The unexpected arrival of the helicopter transformed the quiet community space into a scene of excitement, drawing children and youths from Afaha Abia and Ikot Obio Asanga villages, many witnessing a military helicopter up close for the first time. What began as a routine mission quickly evolved into a meaningful moment of connection and inspiration.

Eereporter.com
Seizing the opportunity, NAF personnel engaged warmly with the young audience, sharing insights into career pathways and emphasizing the values of discipline, service, and patriotism. The interaction ignited hope and aspiration among the youths, with several expressing a desire to join the Service.

NAF

NAF

Seamless coordination between Nigerian Air Force and Nigerian Army personnel, alongside the warm reception by community leaders, further reinforced the strong bond between the military and the people.

Following necessary aviation procedures, the helicopter safely departed and has since returned to base, leaving behind more than just a story, it sparked hope, pride, and stands as a powerful testament to the Nigerian Air Force’s enduring commitment to national defence, community engagement, and inspiring the next generation.

Continue Reading

Akwa Ibom

Akwa Ibom Airport Commences International Operations With Maiden Flight To Ghana

Published

on

By

Ibom Air

Akwa Ibom Airport Commences International Operations With Maiden Flight To Ghana

Today, the people of Akwa Ibom State rolled out the drums, once again, in celebration of a milestone achievement with the completion of the international terminal and the commencement of international operations at the Victor Attah International Airport.

Eereporter.com
The Minister of Aviation and Aerospace Development, Festus Keyamo, SAN, was on ground, and officially declared the airport ready for international operations.

Ibom Air

Ibom Air

The State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, expressed satisfaction with the development, saying, “I am indeed proud to be an Akwa Ibomite.”

Details Loading >>>

Continue Reading

Trending