From Aniekan Aniekan, Calabar
Cross River State Governor Bassey Otu has urged workers to embrace brilliance and innovation in their workplaces to adapt to technological and global changes.
Delivering his Workers’ Day message on Thursday, May 1, through his deputy, Dr Peter Odey, Otu emphasised the need for creativity and adaptability, stating, “The strength of the workforce must be measured not only by its loyalty but also by its literacy, creativity, and adaptability.”
He further said, “We must not just be busy; we must be brilliant. We must not only work harder; we must work smarter. On this Workers’ Day, as the sun rises and the drums beat in celebration, let us renew our commitment, not only to our jobs, but to one another. Let us commit to excellence, to discipline, to unity. Let us reject the culture of mediocrity and embrace the fire of innovation. Let us prove that in Cross River, work is not just an activity; it is a calling.”
Otu encouraged young workers to take pride in their roles and uphold integrity while expressing gratitude to workers for supporting his administration’s vision of equity, dignity, and prosperity. Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) State Chairman Gregory Olayi commended Otu’s developmental efforts but highlighted seven critical issues needing attention, including promotion implementation, gratuity, pension harmonisation, and recruitment, saying, “Addressing these issues is a sure panacea for the state’s long-term progress and stability.”
Trade Union Congress (TUC) State Chairman, Monday Ogbodum, praised Otu’s infrastructure projects but urged him to address excessive checkpoints and curb interference by permanent secretaries and aides in union matters.
The Workers’ Day event, themed “Reclaiming the civic space in the midst of economic hardship”, saw participation from 44 unions across the state.