The Organised Labour in Nasarawa State has expressed concern over the poor nature of electricity supply which is having negative impact on businesses and residents in the State.
The State Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Comrade Ayuba Okoh, made the feelings of the workers known during the 2025 Workers’ Day celebration in Lafia.
Celebrating with the theme “Reclaiming the Civic Space in the Midst of Economic Hardship”, Okoh called on the State Government to investigate the matter and work with the Abuja Electricity Distribution Company (AEDC) to improve electricity supply in the area.
“There is need for collaboration with the AEDC to improve electricity supply in Lafia, the state capital and other parts of the state,” he said.
The NLC Chairman also appealed to the State Government to improve the welfare packages of workers, especially staff of tertiary institutions who have not benefited from the N70,000 minimum wage approved by the Federal Government.
He also requested an upward review of pension payments for state and local government pensioners and appealed for the establishment of a Research, Innovation, and Training Centre for civil servants to boost research and improve productivity.
“Lack of research could reduce the pace for maximum productivity from civil servants in the state,” he said.
On his part, the State Chairman of the Trade Union Congress (TUC), Comrade Mohammed Doma, appealed to Governor Abdullahi Sule for tax relief to civil servants, citing the impact of fuel subsidy removal on their livelihoods.
The TUC Chairman also urged Governor Sule to pay the arrears of the N70,000 minimum wage to workers.
Responding, Governor Sule, represented by the State Head of Service, Barr Abigail Waya, acknowledged the challenges faced by workers and emphasised the importance of prioritising workers’ welfare.
He highlighted government’s efforts to empower workers, including the implementation of the new minimum wage and job creation initiatives.
” Thousands of teachers, medical personnel, and casual workers have been absorbed into permanent positions. Over 3,200 civil servants were promoted between 2018 and 2023, with outstanding promotions approved for state-owned institutions.
“To enhance service delivery, the administration has invested in training civil servants, updating them with modern trends and global standards. The embargo on in-service training has been lifted, demonstrating a commitment to continuous learning and development,” he said.
He, therefore reassured workers of his administration’s commitment to sustaining a labour-friendly environment and engaging with organised labour on issues concerning workers’ welfare.
