Mkpoikana Udoma
Port Harcourt — Workers in Rivers State have raised fresh concerns over pension uncertainties, economic hardship, and governance challenges, as the Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, used the 2026 Workers’ Day celebration to press for urgent reforms and improved welfare for workers.
Speaking at the event held to mark the 2026 May Day in Port Harcourt, the Rivers State NLC Chairman, Comrade Alex Agwanwor, warned that insecurity and poverty remain major threats to decent work and sustainable economic growth.
“Our commemoration of the 2026 Workers’ Day is focused on the theme ‘Insecurity, Poverty – Bane of Decent Work,’” Agwanwor said. “There is no gain re-echoing the dilemma insecurity and poverty pose to socio-economic development. Livelihoods are being destroyed, investments are collapsing, and opportunities are shrinking.”
He noted that while workers acknowledged recent efforts by the state government, significant structural issues continue to undermine productivity and welfare.
Agwanwor commended Governor Siminalayi Fubara for implementing the N85,000 minimum wage and improving working conditions, describing it as “a demonstration of unwavering commitment to workers’ welfare.”
“The seamless process leading to the implementation of the minimum wage clearly demonstrates your commitment to ensuring a conducive working environment,” he said.
However, the labour leader expressed strong dissatisfaction with the state’s contributory pension scheme, describing it as ineffective and detrimental to retirees.
“It will interest you to know that since the commencement of the contributory pension scheme, it has not protected the interest of Rivers State workers,” he stated. “We humbly appeal that the scheme be terminated forthwith and reverted to the defined benefits system.”
He further revealed that many retirees have not been enrolled into monthly pension payments since June 2024 despite completing required documentation, calling the situation “worrisome.”
The NLC also raised concerns over unpaid allowances, stalled salary structures, and poor working conditions in government agencies, warning that unresolved issues could trigger industrial unrest.
Agwanwor cited the non-implementation of the Consolidated Legislative Salary Structure, CONLESS, and backlog of unpaid entitlements as long-standing grievances.
“Legislative workers are earnestly looking forward to your intervention,” he said. “Approval for payment of these backlogs will restore confidence and enhance productivity.”
The labour body also decried irregularities in local government workforce verification exercises, alleging that some council chairmen withheld forms and suspended salaries without justification.
“We find this development absurd and at variance with the intended purpose of the exercise,” Agwanwor said, urging immediate reinstatement of affected workers pending a transparent review.
On infrastructure-driven disruptions, the NLC acknowledged ongoing projects such as the Bodo/Bonny Road but warned of economic hardship caused by displacement.
“We appeal for government intervention through palliatives and support programmes to alleviate the impact, including loss of jobs,” he added.
Despite the concerns, Agwanwor reaffirmed labour’s commitment to partnership with government, stressing the need for inclusive governance and policy responsiveness.
“The times are indeed challenging, but our resilience as workers remains strong,” he said. “We are committed to contributing to the progress, growth, and development of Rivers State.”
The address highlights mounting pressure on subnational governments to balance wage reforms with pension sustainability, amid broader economic challenges affecting Nigeria’s labour market.
This article was originally posted at sweetcrudereports.com
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