Rivers
Fubara Lauds Labour Unions For Sustaining Industrial Peace In Rivers
Governor of Rivers State, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has commended the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), the Trade Union Congress (TUC), and their affiliate unions for embracing dialogue over confrontation in resolving industrial disputes, noting that the approach has entrenched workplace harmony across the state.
In a goodwill message to mark the 2026 May Day celebration, the Governor attributed the prevailing peace in public institutions to the maturity and responsibility of organised labour, urging union leaders to sustain engagement through constructive dialogue to deepen progressive industrial relations.
In a press statement signed by Onwuka Nzeshi, Chief Press Secretary to the Governor, Fubara expressed appreciation to workers in the Rivers State Civil Service for their contributions to the state’s development, assuring them that his administration would continue to prioritise their welfare and well-being.
He disclosed that the ongoing rehabilitation of the State Secretariat Complex would, upon completion, enhance the work environment and boost efficiency and productivity.
Reflecting on the past 35 months, the Governor noted that civil servants had maintained stability and dedication despite political challenges, assuring them that their sacrifices would not go unrewarded.
“Despite political tensions, you remained steadfast. Schools stayed open, hospitals continued to function. This is because you chose service over strife. Rivers State owes you a profound debt of gratitude”, he said.
He paid tribute to workers across sectors, including teachers, healthcare professionals, engineers, sanitation workers, farmers, and artisans, describing them as the driving force behind the state’s growth and resilience.
“Today, Rivers State stands still to honour the people who keep it moving. You are the teachers in Khana and Ahoada who show up even when the rain is heavy. You are the nurses at Rivers State University Teaching Hospital ( RSUTH) who hold the night shift with grace.
“You are the civil servants in the State Secretariat who turn policy into service, the engineers on the Port Harcourt Ring Road braving the sun, the sanitation workers who give us clean streets before the city wakes, and the farmers and artisans whose labour feeds our economy.
“My charge to you this May Day: Keep being the difference. Be diligent and give your best to Rivers State. The road from Degema to Port Harcourt is shorter today because an engineer woke up to work. A child in Etche can read because a teacher refused to give up. That is the Rivers story. You are the authors”, Fubara said.
He added that salaries had been paid consistently, while efforts were ongoing to clear pension backlogs, with a pledge that no retired worker would be neglected.
He, however, acknowledged the economic pressures facing workers, particularly rising living costs and transportation expenses, but commended their resilience and commitment.
Reaffirming his administration’s commitment, the Governor assured workers that their trust would not be betrayed and called on them to remain diligent and dedicated to service.
“Keep making the difference. Your commitment continues to define the progress and story of Rivers State”, he added.