NULGE Rivers State

PRESS RELEASE
01 May, 2025

The leadership of the Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE), Rivers State Chapter, under the stewardship of Comrade Clifford Paul, (FCPA), wishes to categorically disassociate itself and the Union from any protest whether planned, proposed, or orchestrated by any person or group against the Government of Rivers State.

NULGE emphatically states that it does not endorse, support, or recognize any protest action planned or carried out in the name of NULGE. Any person or group found engaging in such unauthorized actions does so at their own risk and should be decisively dealt with in accordance with the law.

The Union acknowledges and deeply appreciates the Rivers State Government for its unwavering commitment to the welfare of Local Government workers, notably:

• The prompt and consistent payment of salaries,

• The implementation of the N85,000 minimum wage,

• The prevailing atmosphere of industrial peace and harmony enjoyed by workers across the State.

As at today, Local Government Workers in Rivers State are NOT owed salaries, allowances or any entitlement.

Furthermore, NULGE commends the approval and directive for immediate implementation of the new salary structure for Health workers by the Sole Administrator, His Excellency Vice Admiral Ibok-Ette Ibas (Rtd). This action underscores the Government's dedication to enhancing the wellbeing of its workforce.

It is therefore baseless and unwise to agitate or protest when no legitimate grievances exist. NULGE Rivers State Chapter remains committed to constructive dialogue, peaceful engagement, and continued collaboration with the State Government to advance the interest of Local Government workers.

Signed:
Comrade Clifford N. Paul, (FCPA)
State President,
NULGE Rivers State Chapter.

𝗡𝗨𝗟𝗚𝗘 𝗥𝗜𝗩𝗘𝗥𝗦 𝗦𝗧𝗔𝗧𝗘 𝗣𝗥𝗘𝗦𝗜𝗗𝗘𝗡𝗧, 𝗖𝗢𝗠𝗥. 𝗖𝗟𝗜𝗙𝗙𝗢𝗥𝗗 𝗣𝗔𝗨𝗟, 𝗙𝗘𝗟𝗜𝗖𝗜𝗧𝗔𝗧𝗘𝗦 𝗪𝗜𝗧𝗛 𝗪𝗢𝗥𝗞𝗘𝗥𝗦 𝗢𝗡 𝗜𝗡𝗧𝗘𝗥𝗡𝗔𝗧𝗜𝗢𝗡𝗔𝗟 𝗪𝗢𝗥𝗞𝗘𝗥𝗦’ 𝗗𝗔𝗬

On this auspicious occasion of International Workers’ Day, I, Comrade Clifford Paul, on behalf of the leadership of the Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE), Rivers State Chapter, extend warm greetings and heartfelt solidarity to all our resilient, dedicated, and hardworking members across the 23 Local Government Areas of the state.

Workers’ Day is not just a date on the calendar; it is a powerful reminder of the struggles, sacrifices, and triumphs of the labour force—especially those at the grassroots who keep our local government system running despite daunting challenges.

Today, we salute your commitment, patience, and unwavering resolve in the face of economic and administrative hardships. Your service to your communities and to the development of our state is invaluable and deeply appreciated.

As your President, I reaffirm NULGE Rivers State’s unwavering commitment to advocating for improved welfare, prompt payment of salaries, conducive working conditions, and the autonomy of local governments.

Let us continue to stand united, strong, and focused on the ideals of justice, equity, and fairness in the workplace.

Happy New Month.

Happy Workers’ Day!
Long live NULGE!
Long live Rivers State!!
Long live the Federal Republic of Nigeria!!!

Comr. Clifford Paul
State President,
NULGE Rivers State Chapter.

𝗚𝗢𝗩𝗘𝗥𝗡𝗢𝗥 𝗙𝗨𝗕𝗔𝗥𝗔 𝗗𝗜𝗥𝗘𝗖𝗧𝗦 𝗜𝗠𝗠𝗘𝗗𝗜𝗔𝗧𝗘 𝗣𝗔𝗬𝗠𝗘𝗡𝗧 𝗢𝗙 𝗟𝗢𝗖𝗔𝗟 𝗚𝗢𝗩𝗘𝗥𝗡𝗠𝗘𝗡𝗧 𝗪𝗢𝗥𝗞𝗘𝗥𝗦’ 𝗦𝗔𝗟𝗔𝗥𝗜𝗘𝗦, ₦𝟴𝟱,𝟬𝟬𝟬 𝗠𝗜𝗡𝗜𝗠𝗨𝗠 𝗪𝗔𝗚𝗘

The Executive Governor of Rivers State, Sir Dr. Siminalayi Fubara, has instructed all Heads of Local Government Administration (HLGAs) to ensure the immediate payment of Local Government workers’ salaries, including the newly approved ₦85,000 minimum wage.

The governor’s directive reaffirms his administration’s unwavering commitment to the welfare of Local Government employees, ensuring they receive their entitlements without delay. This move is part of his broader efforts to enhance working conditions and boost economic stability across the state.

In response, the Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE), Rivers State Chapter, has applauded Governor Fubara for his decisive leadership and dedication to workers' welfare. In a statement issued by its State President, Comrade Clifford Paul, the union commended the governor for prioritizing the needs of Local Government workers, despite prevailing economic challenges.

"Governor Fubara’s intervention in ensuring the prompt payment of salaries and implementing the ₦85,000 minimum wage has brought significant relief to our members. His leadership demonstrates a genuine commitment to improving the lives of civil servants and strengthening economic stability in Rivers State," Comrade Paul stated.

The NULGE leadership urged all HLGAs to comply with the governor’s directive without hesitation, ensuring that Local Government workers receive their salaries on time. The union also reaffirmed its support for the administration and pledged continued cooperation to advance the state’s development.

With this directive, Local Government workers across Rivers State can expect timely salary payments, reinforcing Governor Fubara’s pledge to prioritize the needs of the workforce and foster sustainable growth at the grassroots level.

Festus Ben-k
𝗦𝗽𝗲𝗰𝗶𝗮𝗹 𝗔𝘀𝘀𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗻𝘁 (𝗠𝗲𝗱𝗶𝗮)
𝗧𝗼 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗣𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗶𝗱𝗲𝗻𝘁,
𝗡𝗨𝗟𝗚𝗘 𝗥𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗲.

𝗨𝗥𝗚𝗘𝗡𝗧 𝗣𝗥𝗘𝗦𝗦 𝗥𝗘𝗟𝗘𝗔𝗦𝗘

𝗣𝗟𝗔𝗡 𝗕𝗬 𝗘𝗡𝗘𝗠𝗜𝗘𝗦 𝗢𝗙 𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗦𝗧𝗔𝗧𝗘 𝗧𝗢 𝗖𝗔𝗨𝗦𝗘 𝗠𝗔𝗬𝗛𝗘𝗠 𝗜𝗡 𝗥𝗜𝗩𝗘𝗥𝗦 𝗦𝗧𝗔𝗧𝗘 𝗨𝗡𝗗𝗘𝗥 𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗖𝗢𝗩𝗘𝗥 𝗢𝗙 𝗨𝗟𝗧𝗜𝗠𝗔𝗧𝗨𝗠 𝗚𝗜𝗩𝗘𝗡 𝗧𝗢 𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗡𝗜𝗚𝗘𝗥𝗜𝗔 𝗣𝗢𝗟𝗜𝗖𝗘 𝗧𝗢 𝗩𝗔𝗖𝗔𝗧𝗘 𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗣𝗥𝗘𝗠𝗜𝗦𝗘𝗦 𝗢𝗙 𝗔𝗟𝗟 𝗟𝗢𝗖𝗔𝗟 𝗚𝗢𝗩𝗘𝗥𝗡𝗠𝗘𝗡𝗧 𝗖𝗢𝗨𝗡𝗖𝗜𝗟𝗦 𝗜𝗡 𝗥𝗜𝗩𝗘𝗥𝗦 𝗦𝗧𝗔𝗧𝗘

The Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE) Rivers State chapter lias uncovered the evil plans of the enemies of the state to cause mayhem and destabilize the peace we are currently enjoying in Rivers State.

These enemies of the State wish to hide under the cover of the ultimatum given to the Nigeria Police Force to vacate the premises of all the Local Government Councils and grant the local government workers unhindered access to their offices to carry out their legitimate work.

Although this ultimatum shall lapse by Monday 24 June, 2024, however the Rivers State leadership of NULGE wishes to state unequivocally that:

1. All members of the Union should disregard, disassociate and condemn any form of demonstration or action by miscreants to disrupt the present peace enjoyed by the good people of Rivers State.

2. While the personnel of the Nigeria Police Force continue to ensure security of lives and properties, our members should be granted unhindered access to their offices across the 23 Lecal Government Councils.

3. Our members are core civil servants who are professionals in their conduct in line with global best practices and therefore would remain apolitical.

4. Anyone or group found by the law enforcement agencies to be breaching the peace of the state is indeed an enemy of the state and should be treated as one.

Thank You And God Bless You.

𝗦𝗶𝗴𝗻𝗲𝗱...✍️✍️✍️:

𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗿/𝗔𝗺𝗯. 𝗖𝗹𝗶𝗳𝗳𝗼𝗿𝗱 𝗣𝗮𝘂𝗹,
𝗦𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗣𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗶𝗱𝗲𝗻𝘁,
𝗡𝗨𝗟𝗚𝗘 𝗥𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗲.
𝟮𝟯𝗿𝗱 𝗝𝘂𝗻𝗲, 𝟮𝟬𝟮𝟰.

𝗡𝗜𝗚𝗘𝗥𝗜𝗔 𝗟𝗔𝗕𝗢𝗨𝗥 𝗖𝗢𝗡𝗚𝗥𝗘𝗦𝗦 𝗔𝗡𝗗 𝗧𝗥𝗔𝗗𝗘 𝗨𝗡𝗜𝗢𝗡 𝗖𝗢𝗡𝗚𝗥𝗘𝗦𝗦 𝗢𝗙 𝗡𝗜𝗚𝗘𝗥𝗜𝗔 𝗥𝗜𝗩𝗘𝗥𝗦 𝗦𝗧𝗔𝗧𝗘 𝗖𝗢𝗨𝗡𝗖𝗜𝗟

𝗨𝗥𝗚𝗘𝗡𝗧 𝗣𝗥𝗘𝗦𝗦 𝗥𝗘𝗟𝗘𝗔𝗦𝗘

𝑹𝑬: 𝑷𝑳𝑨𝑵 𝑩𝒀 𝑴𝑰𝑺𝑪𝑹𝑬𝑨𝑵𝑻𝑺 𝑻𝑶 𝑪𝑨𝑼𝑺𝑬 𝑴𝑨𝒀𝑯𝑬𝑴 𝑰𝑵 𝑹𝑰𝑽𝑬𝑹𝑺 𝑺𝑻𝑨𝑻𝑬 𝑼𝑵𝑫𝑬𝑹 𝑻𝑯𝑬 𝑪𝑶𝑽𝑬𝑹 𝑶𝑭 𝑶𝑹𝑮𝑨𝑵𝑰𝒁𝑬𝑫 𝑳𝑨𝑩𝑶𝑼𝑹

The Organized Labour in River State has uncovered a wicked and unlawful plan of some miscreants to cause mayhem across Rivers State from Monday 24 June 2024 under the
cover of the ultimatum issued by the Rivers State Organized Labour to the Inspector General of Police to allow the workers in the various Local Government Areas of Rivers State access to their offices for their statutory duties.

We have it on good authority that some miscreants have been fully mobilized by the enemies of Rivers State to cause mayhem across the 23 Local Government Areas under the cover of the Organized Labour ultimatum which elapses by Monday 24 June 2024.

𝗢𝗻 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝗻𝗼𝘁𝗲, 𝘄𝗲 𝗵𝗲𝗿𝗲𝗯𝘆 𝗱𝗶𝘀𝗮𝘀𝘀𝗼𝗰𝗶𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗼𝘂𝗿𝘀𝗲𝗹𝘃𝗲𝘀 𝗳𝗿𝗼𝗺 𝘁𝗵𝗶𝘀 𝘄𝗶𝗰𝗸𝗲𝗱 𝗽𝗹𝗮𝗻 𝗮𝗶𝗺𝗲𝗱 𝗮𝘁 𝗽𝗿𝗼𝗺𝗼𝘁𝗶𝗻𝗴 𝘁𝗵𝗲 𝗰𝗮𝗹𝗹 𝗳𝗼𝗿 𝗮 𝘀𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗼𝗳 𝗲𝗺𝗲𝗿𝗴𝗲𝗻𝗰𝘆 𝗶𝗻 𝗥𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗯𝘆 𝘀𝗼𝗺𝗲 𝗺𝗶𝘀𝗰𝗵𝗶𝗲𝗳 𝗺𝗮𝗸𝗲𝗿𝘀.

Subsequently, we hereby inform our Members and the General Public as follows;

1. Rivers State Organized Labour has not directed anyone or group of persons to embark on any form of strike action or demonstration following the lockout of our members at the various Local Government Areas in Rivers State by the Nigerian Police.

2. Impacted Affiliate Unions, especially The Nigerian Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE) is hereby directed to remain on standby until further notice for likely lawful industrial action.

3. We call on the Nigerian Police to be vigilant to arrest/prosecute any miscreant found to be breaching the unfettered peace of Rivers State.

We support the ongoing giant strides of His Excellency, Sir Siminalayi Fubara GSSRS to
promote a peaceful and prosperous Rivers State.

𝗦𝗶𝗴𝗻𝗲𝗱...✍️✍️✍️:

𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗿𝗮𝗱𝗲 𝗔𝗹𝗲𝘅 𝗔𝗴𝘄𝗮𝗻𝘄𝗼𝗿
𝗦𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗶𝗿𝗽𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗼𝗻 𝗡𝗟𝗖

𝗦𝗶𝗿 𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗿𝗮𝗱𝗲 𝗜𝗸𝗲𝗰𝗵𝘂𝗸𝘄𝘂 𝗢𝗻𝘆𝗲𝗳𝘂𝗿𝘂
𝗦𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗶𝗿𝗽𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗼𝗻 𝗧𝗨𝗖

𝗖𝗼𝗺𝗿𝗮𝗱𝗲 𝗖𝗵𝘂𝗸𝘂 𝗘𝗺𝗲𝗰𝗵𝗲𝘁𝗮 (𝗝𝗣)
𝗦𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗖𝗵𝗮𝗶𝗿𝗽𝗲𝗿𝘀𝗼𝗻 𝗝𝗡𝗖

𝗦𝗢𝗟𝗘𝗠𝗡𝗜𝗭𝗔𝗧𝗜𝗢𝗡 𝗢𝗙 𝗛𝗢𝗟𝗬 𝗠𝗔𝗧𝗥𝗜𝗠𝗢𝗡𝗬

Comr. Amb. Clifford Paul, in his capacity as the esteemed State President of the NULGE Rivers State Chapter, graciously led a delegation comprising esteemed members of the State Executive Council to partake in the joyous occasion of the wedding ceremony uniting the lives of Onyinyechi Ajinwon and Kingsley Onyezewe. It was a momentous event, where the union of hearts and families was celebrated amidst heartfelt congratulations and well-wishes.

Of notable significance, Onyinyechi Ajinwon, radiant and resplendent in her bridal glory, is the beloved daughter of the distinguished former State President of NULGE, Rivers State, Chief Comrade Franklin P. Ajinwo (EZE OKWURRU OKPARA). Her journey down the aisle, escorted by her proud father, marked a poignant moment of familial pride and tradition, symbolizing the continuation of legacy and love.

The sacred vows were exchanged at the solemn yet jubilant setting of St. Paul Anglican Church, nestled in the serene environs of Okporowo, Ogbakiri District. Surrounded by the warmth of family, friends, and well-wishers, Onyinyechi and Kingsley embarked on their journey of matrimony, pledging to stand by each other through life's myriad of joys and challenges.

As the echoes of "I do" reverberated through the hallowed halls of the church, hearts were uplifted with the promise of enduring love and unwavering commitment. It was indeed a testament to the timeless union of two souls destined to walk the path of life together, hand in hand.

In the wake of this joyous occasion, amidst the flutter of confetti and the jubilant cheers of those in attendance, we extend our heartfelt congratulations to Mr. & Mrs. Kingsley Onyezewe. May your union be blessed with boundless love, unending happiness, and a lifetime of cherished memories.

Festus Ben-k,
𝗦𝗽𝗲𝗰𝗶𝗮𝗹 𝗔𝘀𝘀𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗻𝘁 (𝗠𝗲𝗱𝗶𝗮)
𝗧𝗼 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗣𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗶𝗱𝗲𝗻𝘁,
𝗡𝗨𝗟𝗚𝗘 𝗥𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗲.

Comr. Amb. Clifford Paul , the State President of NULGE Rivers State Chapter, stood before the assembled gathering, his demeanor reflecting both solemnity and reverence. With heartfelt sincerity, he began his farewell speech, paying homage to the Branch Chairman of NULGE Abua Odual LGA, late Comr. Otoayoor Ogu, whose memory they had gathered to honor.

"Ladies and gentlemen, esteemed Comrades, today we gather not only to mourn the loss of a cherished member of NULGE but also to celebrate the profound impact left by our dear Comrade." Comr. Paul's voice resonated with emotion, each word carrying the weight of their collective grief and gratitude.

"As we reflect on Comr. Ogu's remarkable life and legacy, we are reminded of his unwavering commitment to the ideals of service and solidarity. His dedication to our cause, his tireless efforts to uplift the voices of our Union, and his steadfast leadership within our organization have left an indelible mark that will forever be remembered," Comr. Paul continued, his words echoing the sentiments shared by all those present.

"Though he may no longer walk among us, Comr. Ogu's spirit lives on in the countless lives he touched and the enduring legacy he leaves behind. Let us honor his memory not only through our words but through our actions, as we continue the work he so passionately dedicated himself to," Comr. Paul concluded, his voice imbued with resolve and determination.

With heads bowed and hearts heavy with both sorrow and gratitude, the gathered members of the State Executive Council paid their respects to the late Comr. Otoayoor Ogu, pledging to carry forward his legacy with the same fervor and dedication that he had exemplified throughout his life.

Festus Ben-k,
𝗦𝗽𝗲𝗰𝗶𝗮𝗹 𝗔𝘀𝘀𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗻𝘁 (𝗠𝗲𝗱𝗶𝗮)
𝗧𝗼 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗣𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗶𝗱𝗲𝗻𝘁,
𝗡𝗨𝗟𝗚𝗘 𝗥𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗲.

𝗜𝗡𝗧𝗘𝗥𝗡𝗔𝗧𝗜𝗢𝗡𝗔𝗟 𝗪𝗢𝗥𝗞𝗘𝗥'𝗦 𝗗𝗔𝗬

The Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE), Rivers State, extend warm greetings to all workers on this auspicious occasion of Workers' Day Celebration.

Today, we gather at the Yakubu Gowon Stadium, Port Harcourt, to commemorate the invaluable contributions of workers across all sectors to the socio-economic development of our great nation.

Our union stands proud as we reflect on the dedication, resilience, and unwavering commitment of local government employees in Rivers State. Despite the challenges, our members continue to be the backbone of our communities, delivering essential services with professionalism and diligence.

On this special day, let us renew our resolve to advocate for the welfare and rights of workers, ensuring fair wages, safe working conditions, and opportunities for professional growth.

As we celebrate, let us also remember the sacrifices of those who have gone before us, paving the way for the rights and privileges we enjoy today.

Together, let us continue to strive for a future where every worker is valued, respected, and empowered to reach their full potential.

Happy Workers' Day to all!

Solidarity forever!

Festus Ben-k,
𝗦𝗽𝗲𝗰𝗶𝗮𝗹 𝗔𝘀𝘀𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗻𝘁 (𝗠𝗲𝗱𝗶𝗮)
𝗧𝗼 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗣𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗶𝗱𝗲𝗻𝘁,
𝗡𝗨𝗟𝗚𝗘 𝗥𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗲.

Happy Worker's Day!

May your hard work be recognized and rewarded, and may you find fulfillment and joy in all that you do.

Ladies and gentlemen of the press,

The emergency meeting of the State Executive Council (SEC) of the Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE) held on 20 March, 2024 at the NULGE Consulate, Port Harcourt deliberated on local government workers centered issues, which include Governor Siminalayi Fubara GSSRS directive for immediate implementation of the #30,000 minimum wage and implementation of the promotions arrears of our members across the 23 local government for over 8 years.

It is with a heart filled with gratitude and joy as we acknowledge His Excellency's magnanimity and significant strides in matters that concerns the well-being of the local government workers. This decision is a testament to his commitment to the welfare and progress of our workers.

I am pleased to report that the promotion exercise has been ongoing for weeks now, and it has been a smooth and orderly process, with workers turning out en masse to participate. This is undeniably one of the happiest moments for our members and indeed a commendable process.

It is important to emphasize that this noble and commendable action of the executive governor of Rivers State, His Excellency, Sir Siminalayi Fubara GSSRS is a welcome development and acceptable by all and sundry.

Our acceptability and appreciation was recently demonstrated during a THANK YOU rally to the governor, where all the 23 Local Government Councils were short down and all local government workers trooped out in a peaceful rally to say THANK YOU Governor Fubara.

The rally held on 3rd of April, 2024 was described as a mother of all rallies, which had all employees in the 23 local government come out en mass in appreciation of the kind gesture of His Excellency. All the 23 local government Councils were shot down only for one man who have proven beyond reasonable doubt the capacity to lead Rivers State at a time like this.

Therefore, we call on all and sundry to give maximum support to the administration of Governor Siminalayi Fubara GSSRS and ignore every attempt of sabotaging this noble gesture, be it through litigation. Let it be known that such sabotage shall be seen not just as an act against the state but also against the good people of Rivers State and NULGE shall waste no time to resist all forms of sabotage.

The promotion implementation and #30,000 minimum wage to local government workers is a long-awaited dividend of democracy, and its arrival at this time is indeed a testament to divine providence.

On behalf of the Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE), Rivers State chapter, I appreciate the kind gesture of His Excellency and I reaffirm our unwavering support and loyalty to the administration of His Excellency, Sir Siminalayi Fubara GSSRS. We are grateful for his leadership and commitment to the welfare of workers, and we pledge to continue working tirelessly towards the progress and prosperity of our dear state.

God Bless NULGE,
GSSRS God Bless Rivers State,
God bless Sir Siminalayi Fubara.

Corm/Amb. Clifford Paul,
State President NULGE,
Rivers State Chapter.

𝗧𝗛𝗔𝗡𝗞 𝗬𝗢𝗨 𝗦𝗜𝗥, 𝗦𝗜𝗠𝗜𝗡𝗔𝗟𝗔𝗬𝗜 𝗙𝗨𝗕𝗔𝗥𝗔, 𝗚𝗢𝗩𝗘𝗥𝗡𝗢𝗥 𝗢𝗙 𝗥𝗜𝗩𝗘𝗥𝗦 𝗦𝗧𝗔𝗧𝗘 (𝗧𝗛𝗘 𝗠𝗘𝗦𝗦𝗜𝗔𝗛 𝗢𝗙 𝗥𝗜𝗩𝗘𝗥𝗦 𝗖𝗜𝗩𝗜𝗟 𝗦𝗘𝗥𝗩𝗔𝗡𝗧𝗦).

Rivers State Governor, Sir Siminalayi Fubara, has been lauded by members of the Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE) during a recent rally at the Government House Gate in Port Harcourt. The gathering, which drew representatives from all 23 Local Government Areas of the state, served as a platform for NULGE leaders to express their appreciation for the governor's unwavering support and transformative policies.

Comr. Clifford Paul, the Rivers State President of NULGE, took the opportunity to convey the union's gratitude to Governor Fubara for his proactive measures aimed at improving the lives of local government workers. Paul highlighted key initiatives spearheaded by the governor, including the implementation of the N30,000 minimum wage and the lifting of an eight-year ban on promotions. According to Paul, these actions have not only uplifted the morale of workers but have also restored hope and dignity to their profession.

In addition to Paul's remarks, Comr. Ajewole Ayedele, the National Secretary of NULGE, emphasized the significance of Governor Fubara's pro-people policies. Ayedele commended the governor for his commitment to addressing the longstanding issues faced by local government employees, particularly the stagnation and frustration resulting from the lack of promotions. He assured Governor Fubara of NULGE steadfast support at both the state and national levels, citing the union's unanimous endorsement of the governor's initiatives during a recent National Executive Council meeting.

Echoing the sentiments of NULGE, Comr. Alex Agwanwor, the Rivers State Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), underscored the solidarity of workers with Governor Fubara. Agwanwor praised the governor for his efforts in advancing workers' welfare and ensuring their overall well-being. He warned against any attempts to undermine the governor's leadership, stating that the NLC would vehemently oppose any moves to impeach Governor Fubara. Furthermore, Agwanwor emphasized the readiness of organized labor to mobilize its members in support of the governor's administration.

Responding to the outpouring of support, Governor Fubara expressed his gratitude to the members of NULGE and NLC for their unwavering endorsement. He acknowledged the significance of their presence at the rally as a testament to the organic support his administration continues to enjoy from the people of Rivers State. Governor Fubara reiterated his commitment to serving with integrity and compassion, emphasizing the importance of policies that genuinely improve the lives of citizens.

In his address, Governor Fubara outlined his administration's ongoing efforts to implement further reforms aimed at enhancing worker's welfare and promoting sustainable development in the state. He assured the gathering that the implementation of the N30,000 minimum wage had already commenced, with promotions set to follow in the upcoming salary payments. Additionally, Governor Fubara pledged to finalize plans for the implementation of the Consolidated Salary Scale for Grade Level 17 and to ensure regular payment of benefits to local government service retirees.

Amidst the accolades and expressions of support, Governor Fubara also addressed the political dynamics within the state, particularly regarding recent interventions and agreements reached through dialogue. He reaffirmed his commitment to upholding agreements reached through political solutions, emphasizing his respect for the process and the individuals involved. However, Governor Fubara cautioned against any misinterpretation of his compliance as a sign of weakness, asserting his determination to uphold the integrity of his administration and the mandate entrusted to him by the people of Rivers State.

Festus Ben-k,
𝗦𝗽𝗲𝗰𝗶𝗮𝗹 𝗔𝘀𝘀𝗶𝘀𝘁𝗮𝗻𝘁 (𝗡𝗲𝘄 𝗠𝗲𝗱𝗶𝗮)
𝗧𝗼 𝗧𝗵𝗲 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗲 𝗣𝗿𝗲𝘀𝗶𝗱𝗲𝗻𝘁,
𝗡𝗨𝗟𝗚𝗘 𝗥𝗶𝘃𝗲𝗿𝘀 𝗦𝘁𝗮𝘁𝗲.