Workers in Bayelsa State on Thursday celebrated this year’s Workers’ Day with resounding praise for Governor Douye Diri, commending his administration’s commitment to their welfare and the development of the state’s labour sector.
In a joint address at the Peace Park in Yenagoa, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC) lauded the governor for being responsive and kind to the workforce. Presented by NLC State Chairman, Comrade Barnabas Simon, and his TUC counterpart, Comrade Laye Julius, the unions described Diri’s administration as a dependable partner of labour.
“Before going ahead to make fresh demands, we feel obligated to appreciate you for all the good work and commitment your administration has shown in providing solutions to the needs of workers in the state,” the labour leaders said.
“It is visible to the blind and audible to the deaf that your administration has been kind to Bayelsa workers.”
The unions listed key achievements, including:
Approval of 25% and 35% salary increases for civil servants from May 2025
Payment of arrears from January to April 2025
Implementation of the new ₦80,000 minimum wage
Prompt salary and pension payments
Promotion exercises and payment of benefits
Completion of NLC/TUC twin secretariat building
Construction of a nine-storey workers’ secretariat
Passage of the Education Officers Law for extended retirement age
Resolution of placement for judiciary staff on Grade Level 17
Inclusion of local government workers in new wage structure
While applauding the strides, the unions presented additional demands, including payment of 2024/2025 promotion arrears and arrears for Hospital Management Board workers omitted in previous promotions. They also requested implementation of judiciary staff promotions and the construction of civil servant quarters and low-cost housing.
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In response, Governor Diri expressed solidarity with workers, noting his background as a teacher and the son of a devoted classroom educator.
“I understand first hand the sacrifices you make, the diligence you show, and the hope you carry for a better tomorrow,” he said.
He presented two brand-new buses to the NLC and TUC—one of their long-standing demands—assuring them of more shuttle buses and official vehicles for permanent secretaries.
“Before you here are two new buses procured by your government for the use of the NLC and TUC. That was one recurring demand that we have solved today,” Diri said.
He also ordered the immediate release of funds for the relocation of Bayelsa Polytechnic to Aleibiri in Ekeremor Local Government Area and for securing accreditation of its academic programmes.
The 2025 Workers’ Day in Bayelsa ended on a hopeful note, with both government and labour leaders pledging continued collaboration for the welfare of the state’s workforce.