The governor of Akwa Ibom State, Mr. Udom Emmanuel has declared the state’s ability to pay its workers the proposed N30, 000 minimum wage.
The governor stated this yesterday in Uyo during a consultative meeting with the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Trade Union Congress (TUC), United Labour Congress (ULC) and other affiliated unions.
Udom said the state was only waiting for the approval so that it can be implement in the state.
He said even when allocations from the federal government was still pending, the state sourced for money to make sure salaries were paid.
Udom described labour as “key to development” adding that it cannot be relegated to the background.
He commended the various labour movements for their support.
“Minimum wage has never been an issue; it is just that it has been a matter of legislation. We are waiting for directions from the federal government, once the direction is given, we will pay.
“In the face of circumstances and what we face in this country, I have done my best to make sure that workers do not suffer. I pay salaries in circumstances that I do not receive allocation. You did not elect me to make excuses but to find solution to problems.
“I have demonstrated capacity yesterday and can look into the future. I am here today because you people have strengthened me to be here and made it possible for me to be here, and we can talk and negotiate. I thank labour for the fantastic relationship between the labour and us.
“The People’s Democratic Party (PDP) has the best blueprint for workers in the country. We need your support in the usual manner to support us in the coming election.
“Today is the day for consultation. I want to thank God for the leadership of the labour and for this state. It is not in every state that labour sits like this with the governor,” he said.
Earlier, the state chairman of NLC, Mr. Etim Ukpong had praised the governor and reminded him of the need to fulfill all the outstanding promises to the workers.
“Over three and a half years, there has been no labour restiveness in Akwa Ibom State because you are working with people who can manage the situation.
“Your coming gives us the satisfaction that we are working with somebody who understands the meaning of labour union.
“You saw how the labour leaders welcomed you. They appreciate you and what your government has spent during the period as governor. Our workers want to see the consultation in action” he stated.
