‎Workers in Osun State have endorsed Governor Ademola Adeleke for a second term, citing his administration’s efforts in improving workers’ welfare, prompt salary payments and pension reforms since assuming office in November 2022.

‎The endorsement came during the Workers’ Day celebration, which drew large participation from civil servants, labour leaders and residents across the state.

‎The venue was awash with beautiful colours of different Ankara fabrics, as enthusiastic workers turned out in large numbers to receive the Governor and his entourage.

‎Addressing the gathering, labour leaders, including Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) Chairman, Comrade Christopher Arapasopo; Chairman of the Joint Negotiation Council, Comrade Lekan Adediran; and Trade Union Congress (TUC) Chairman, Comrade Abimbola Fasasi, urged workers to mobilise support for Adeleke ahead of the August 15 governorship election and safeguard their votes.

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‎They praised the Governor for prioritising the welfare of workers and pensioners, describing his performance across key sectors as commendable and deserving of continuity.

‎“The Governor has demonstrated commitment to the well-being of workers and retirees. He deserves another term to consolidate on these achievements,” the labour leaders stated.

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‎Governor Adeleke, in his remarks read by by his deputy, Prince Kola Adewusi, reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to workers, describing them as central to the state’s development.

‎He noted that his government had implemented a new minimum wage of over ₦75,000 to improve workers’ living standards and ensure fair compensation.

‎He added that over ₦50 billion in pension arrears and inherited obligations had been cleared, alongside significant progress in settling outstanding half salaries and pension liabilities accumulated over a decade.

‎Despite financial constraints, particularly challenges relating to local government allocations, the Governor said his administration had sustained the payment of salaries for local government workers and allowances for traditional rulers.

‎On civil service reforms, Adeleke highlighted the restoration of Permanent Secretary positions and the implementation of previously approved promotions that lacked financial backing.

‎Appealing for continued support, he urged workers to back his administration in the forthcoming election to sustain ongoing reforms.

‎“On this Workers’ Day, I assure you once again that this administration will continue to prioritise your welfare, protect your rights and create an enabling environment for you to thrive,” he said.

‎In a goodwill message, the Minister of Labour and Employment, Muhammad Maigari Dingyadi, represented by the Controller of the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment in Osun State, Ali Adeyemi, said the Federal Government had introduced reforms aimed at strengthening workers’ rights and improving welfare.

‎He urged workers to support government initiatives geared towards transforming economic challenges into opportunities, reaffirming the Federal Government’s commitment to enhancing the welfare of Nigerian workers.