I am delighted to congratulate all workers in Ekiti State as we mark the year 2020 Workers’ Day. We thank God for sparing our lives for another Workers’ Day.
- May Day is very significant in the life of workers all over the world. It is a day to celebrate all workers whose indispensable toiling hands have laboured to support governments in creating social and economic well being for societies. It is a day to give special recognition to the dignity of labour. Worker’s Day presents an opportunity for appraisal of workers contributions to nation-building and a reflection on the progress and challenges in the struggle to improve the conditions of workers.
- Unlike the colourful and exciting May Day that we are used to, this year Workers’ Day is being marked in a sobering atmosphere of the fight against the Coronavirus Pandemic. The scourge has arrested the world economy and is constituting a great threat to human life. I applaud Ekiti State Government under the purposeful leadership of Governor Kayode Fayemi for the measures put in place to contain the spread of the virus and for the distribution of palliative packages to the vulnerable in the state. Equally commendable is the prompt payment of workers’ salaries at this crucial period. We sincerely thank His Excellency, the Governor.
- The theme of this year’s Workers’ Dayis ”COVID-19 PANDEMIC AND ITS SOCIO- ECONOMIC IMPACT ON THE NIGERIAN WORKING CLASS”. The theme addresses the critical issues threatening the Public Service and the well being of the people we serve. The entire world is going through an unusual period in history. The challenges are diverse and range from dwindling resources, inadequate wage and poverty to global health crisis and insecurity. However, we should accept the truth in the words of Napoleon Hill that: ”every adversity, every failure, every heartache carries with it the seed of an equal or greater benefit.” Therefore, as drivers of government business, the challenges should not deter us but spur us to explore new and smart ways of doing our work without compromising standards and rules.The future of work lies in our hands, and we must remain strong, resilient and proactive as we tackle the challenges headlong for the common good.
- Ekiti State labour leaders have been relentless in advancing the cause of workers. I also acknowledge their immense inputs through regular and constructive engagement with government on issues bordering on socio-economic development of the State.The sustenance of industrial peace in Ekiti State has helped in the realization of a stable work environment made possible through shared commitment to peace, prosperity and the development of the State.
- I thank the worker-friendly Governor, His Excellency, Dr John Kayode Fayemi, who has actively demonstrated his love and concern for the workers and citizens in general. Ekiti workers have every cause to heave a sigh of relief as the government is undoubtedly committed to promoting their welfare and well being through regular payment of salaries and pensions, the release of housing and car loans, staff training and development among others.
- Fellow workers, in adverse times, the best of the human spirit comes to the fore. Therefore, I encourage you to take advantage of this period for self-development. For workers at home, use your time for productive activities, while obeying the preventive measures set against the spread of COVID-19. I agree with Lee Lacoccathat ” In times of great stress or adversity, it’s always best to keep busy, to plough your anger and your energy into something positive”.
- As we mark this year’s Workers Day, I urge you all to keep hope alive and let us rededicate ourselves to attaining the goal of building a fit-for-purpose Public Service.
- I wish to acknowledge and commend the dedication to service of our health care workers and workers rendering essential services during this pandemic. Once again, I appreciate the labour movement for the understanding, trust and cooperation, which has enhanced industrial harmony in the state. I thank the management and leadership of the Public Service for effectively holding the fort at this crucial time.
- Finally, once again, I wish to congratulate all workers for witnessing the 2020 Worker’s Day. May wehave more glorious celebrations in the coming years.
- Thank you, and may your labour be fruitful.