Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has affirmed his commitment to implementing the new minimum wage approved by the Federal Government for workers in the state.
Speaking at the Yakubu Gowon Stadium in Port Harcourt during the 2024 International Workers Day celebrations themed ‘People First’, Governor Fubara expressed his concern about the poor state of the nation’s economy and the resulting rising inflation, which has adversely affected the purchasing power and well-being of the average worker and their families.
Governor Fubara assured, “We are going to work with the Federal Government to implement necessary measures, including the continuation of free bus services and the provision of necessary palliatives to alleviate the current hardships faced by ordinary citizens.
We are also committed to implementing the increase in workers’ salaries recently approved by the Federal Government as soon as the parameters are made available.”
He emphasized his administration’s dedication to listening to the concerns and demands of labor, especially regarding the urgency of stimulating economic growth and improving living conditions.
Governor Fubara acknowledged workers as critical human resources contributing immensely to the sustained long-term economic growth of the State.
The Governor highlighted his administration’s efforts to improve the working conditions of state workers, noting, “On the 1st of June, 2023, barely three days after assuming office, I visited the State Secretariat Complex to assess its dilapidated state and take immediate measures to enhance the poor working environment of our workers.
Since then, we have reactivated and restored some facilities and services in the Secretariat Complex, including the water system, elevators, leaking roofs, and improved electricity supply.”
Furthermore, he revealed plans for the comprehensive rehabilitation of the Secretariat Complex, stating, “We have also commissioned a reputable international company to assess the entire complex and advise on the cost of a comprehensive rehabilitation, which we intend to carry out in phases as available finances will allow.”
