Lagos State Governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu, has expressed solidarity with Nigerian workers’ over the demand for wage increase, saying, his administration would continue to prioritize welfare and prosperity of workforce in the state.
Sanwo-Olu stated this on Wednesday, while addressing workers during the May Day celebration, held at Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Onikan, Lagos Island.
According to the Governor, “There is no gainsaying that this year’s workers day is being celebrated amidst economic challenges which are as a result of the difficult but yet inevitable policies taken by the government to rescue the economy and set it on the path of sustainable growth.
“The economic downturn has brought about disruptions that have affected lives and livelihoods. Yet, in the face of these challenges trials, you have exhibited remarkable resilience, adaptability, and courage.
“You have been the backbone of our response efforts, ensuring that essential services remain uninterrupted and that our state stands strong.
“This year’s theme, ‘People First,’ resonates deeply with our administration’s philosophy which is underpinned by our firm belief in prioritizing the welfare of our people.
“Through, various measures, policies and initiatives, we have demonstrated that the interest and welfare of the people comes first and remains the ultimate goal of all our actions.
“Our response actions are geared towards mitigating the impact of these trying times and offer support to both our workers and citizens alike.
“We have been steadfast and intentional in implementing our social intervention programs, providing crucial assistance to those in need throughout the state.
“From subsidized food items through our Ounje Eko, and Eko Cares initiatives to incentives on social services, we have made tangible differences in countless lives.
“Healthcare initiatives that ensure access to quality medical services for all, transportation support, and educational opportunities for our children exemplify our commitment to creating a Lagos where everyone has a fair chance to thrive.
“Our dedication to putting people first extends beyond mere words. We stand by our labor unions and organizations advocating for workers’ rights and welfare.
“Together, we have achieved significant milestones in improving working conditions and ensuring fair wages and benefits, understanding that a thriving workforce is pivotal to our state’s prosperity.
“I want to encourage us to understand the importance of standing together in solidarity and supporting one another through these difficult times.
“Our social intervention programmes exemplify this spirit of unity and compassion, offering lifelines to those facing hardship and adversity.
“As a government, we recognize the fundamental principles of fairness, equality and justice in the workplace.
“Every individual, regardless of their gender or background, deserves to be treated with dignity and respect.
“We will continue to uphold these principles and strive to create environments where all workers feel valued, empowered and safe.
“As we look towards the future, I want to reaffirm our commitment to building a more inclusive and equitable society in which the interest of workers receives the attention it deserves.
“We will continue to invest in education, training and skills development to equip our workforce with the tools they need to succeed in their places of work because we recognize the vital role that workers play in driving progress and prosperity in our society.
“And we pledge to build a future where every worker is respected, empowered and able to live with dignity and pride.
“I want to express my deepest gratitude to the hardworking men and women who make Lagos State the vibrant, dynamic City that it is.
“Your dedication inspires us all, and it is an honour to serve as your Governor. Together, let us continue to strive for a future where the mantra of “People First” is not just aslogan, but a reality for every citizen of Lagos State.”
Earlier, Lagos State Head of Service, Mr Bode Agoro, said, “Lagos State Government has always put the issues relating to its workforce as front burner knowing fully well that
they are the engine room of numerous achievements in our dear State.
“I am very proud to lead a vibrant workforce that embodies the spirit of selflessness, commitment, true team spirit, dedication and hard work, as your tireless efforts in delivering exceptional
services to the good people of Lagos State are duly recognized.
“As a responsible and responsive Government, the Administration of Mr. Babajide Sanwo-Olu, the Governor of Lagos State has remained resolute and committed to frontally addressing these numerous challenges, and as such has, put in place various policies and programmes to cushion the effect of the current hardship.
“Some of the laudable intervention programmes put in place include but not limited to: Implementation of the N35,000 Wage Award for Public Servants with effect from December 2023.
“Re-implementation of 25 per cent Basic Salary Incentives for Core Establishment Agencies; Implementation of Work Time Flexibility which allows Civil Servants on Grade Levels 01– 14 to work from home twice in a week, while those on Grade Levels 15 – 17 are allowed once a week with effect from 28th February, 2024.
“Implementation of 40 per cent rebate on statutory fees payable to Lagos State Government by Public Servants on Applications for Physical Planning Permit; Allocation of Government Housing Schemes and Land Allocation in the state government chemes.
“Ounje Eko Initiative – weekend markets where staple food stuffs and livestock produce are sold at discounted rates across the five Divisions of the State; Eko Cares Initiative, which is an intervention scheme designed to touch about 500,000 households directly.
“Implementation of the National Minimum Wage of 2019 for Pensioners under the Defined Benefit Scheme in the Lagos State Public Service with effect from January, 2024; disbursement of Financial Grants to SMEs through the Lagos State Employment Trust Fund (LSETF) to help boost their financial capabilities and sustainability.
“Reduction of all fare prices on the Lagos State Multimodal Transport System by 25 per cent, to mention just a few.”
Agoro disclosed that “Mr. Governor has graciously approved the purchase of 120 Units of vehicles for allocation to substantive Directors on Grade Level 17 in the State Public Service, while preparations and arrangements are in top gear to ensure the vehicle are handed over to the lucky winners before the end of May 2024.
“Let us continue to work together and endeavor to put people first in everything we do. Together, we shall continue to work towards building a Lagos where everyone has access to quality services, equal opportunities and chance to thrive.
“Let me conclude my expressing my profound appreciation to all Lagos State Public Servants for your continued support of government’s plans, policies and programmes in ensuring that Lagos State remains Nigeria’s Centre of Excellence. “ (Vanguard)
