RismadarVoice Reporters, May 2, 2026
Akwa Ibom State Governor, Pastor Umo Eno, has announced a ₦160 million support fund for workers in the state as part of activities marking the 2026 International Workers’ Day.
The Governor also presented brand new vehicles to the Chairman of the Trade Union Congress (TUC), Comrade Kingsley Akpan, and the State Chairperson of the Joint Public Sector Negotiation Committee, Comrade Kingsley Ekong, in recognition of their service.
Represented at the event by the Deputy Governor, Senator Akon Eyakenyi, Governor Eno said the gestures underscore his administration’s commitment to supporting workers, whose dedication and productivity continue to drive development in the state.
Eyakenyi described Akwa Ibom as one of the most peaceful states in the country, attributing the growing influx of organisations hosting events in the state to its security and stability. She noted that recent commendations by the Inspector-General of Police, IGP Olatunji Rilwan Disu, and the Chief of the Air Staff further validate the government’s investment in peace and security.
“Just yesterday, the IGP and the Chief of Air Staff applauded the Governor for the peaceful and orderly nature of the state. This reflects the level of commitment and investment made by the administration,” she said.
She urged labour leaders to acknowledge the government’s efforts in maintaining security and empowering youths, noting that such initiatives have contributed significantly to the prevailing calm in the state.
The Deputy Governor disclosed that following a recent engagement with the leadership of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and TUC, the Governor constituted a committee to address workers’ concerns within one month.
She also paid tribute to the outgoing NLC Chairman, Comrade Sunny James, commending his dedication and contributions to the growth of the state.
Reaffirming the government’s commitment to workers’ welfare, Eyakenyi revealed that about ₦82 billion has been paid out of over ₦100 billion in outstanding gratuities. She added that the administration has provided housing for civil servants through a transparent raffle system and sustained training programmes to enhance manpower development.
In his remarks, the Special Adviser to the Governor on Labour Matters, Sir Udo Kierian, described May Day as a global celebration of workers, noting that Akwa Ibom workers have much to celebrate given the government’s favourable labour policies.
He stated that since assuming office in May 2023, Governor Eno has maintained an inclusive approach to governance, ensuring that workers are carried along in policy implementation.
Also speaking, the State Chairman of the NLC, Comrade Sunny James, commended the governor for his efforts in improving workers’ welfare, particularly in the payment of gratuities, while calling for faster implementation of some policies.
“We have a leader who loves workers and is gradually clearing gratuities,” he said.
James described his tenure, which began in April 2019, as challenging but impactful, and urged workers to remain united and committed as he prepares to leave office in the coming months.
In their goodwill messages, the Head of Civil Service, Mrs Elise Peter; Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Udeme Otong; the Chief Judge, represented by Justice Effiong Effiong; and labour leaders commended the governor’s sustained efforts in promoting workers’ welfare.
They acknowledged the administration’s strides in mobilising contractors back to project sites, improving working conditions, and addressing outstanding gratuities, expressing optimism that continued collaboration between labour and government would strengthen industrial harmony and drive further development in the state.
