By Thompson Yamput
Gov. Ahmed Ododo of Kogi on Friday challenged civil servants on the building and transformibg the state into the desired dream of its citizens.
The governor gave the challenge in his address at the celebration of 2026 May Day held at the Muhammadu Buhari Square, Lokoja.
He said, “The task of building the Kogi of our dreams does not rest in the government alone. It requires the collective effort of all of us.
“Let us put in the work, embrace patriotism, and strengthen our unity so that together, we can build a State that future generations will be proud of.
“We must reject indiscipline, inefficiency, and instead embrace diligence, integrity, and a shared sense of purpose.”
Ododo recognised and honoured the sacrifices of those who have stood for the rights and welfare of workers, whose contributions spoke volumes that “progress is achieved through courage, sacrifice, and commitment to justice.”
The governor admonished workers to demonstrate responsible participation in politics as olitical activities gain momentum in the state.
“We must not lose sight of the fact that our people depend on us for service and productivity. Politics has its place, but our primary duty remains service to the people. Let us continue to work hard to create an environment that will boost industrialization, create opportunities, and engage our youths.
“Beyond politics, our shared goal must be to build a Kogi that is industrialised and positioned as a production hub for our nation.
“To every worker in Kogi, I assure you that your labour is not in vain. Your sacrifices are recognised, your contributions are valued, and our government remains committed to your welfare and well-being.
“Together, we will continue to move Kogi forward, building a stronger, more united, and more productive State for ourselves and generations yet unborn,” he stated.
Earlier inhus remains, State NLC Chairman, Comrade Amari Gabriel, reminded the government that the promise that human dignity at work is not negotiable, while the sweat of workers’ labour shall purchase food, shelter, and hope for our families.
Gabriel argued that May 1, 1889 declaration of workers Day does not mean workers are beggars asking for crumbs but stakeholders “demanding our rightful place at the table of national development.”
He said that was why this year’s may day theme, “Insecurity and Poverty: The Bane of Decent Work,” speaks directly to Kogi’s experience,” was carefully chosen.
According to him, Kogi, as the geographic soul of Nigeria and a gateway to ten other states, bears a unique security burden.
“We cannot build a productive workforce in an atmosphere of insecurity. Thank God, Your Excellency has understood this truth.
“Your security initiatives, such as the Executive Proclamation on Security Protocols, the deployment of surveillance drones, the distribution of 49 security vehicles, and the engagement of traditional rulers as security partners, are not mere gestures. They are investments in the precondition for decent work. For this, we thank you,” he said.
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He appealed to the governor to reinstate 441 workers unjustly laid off
during a recent state civil service screening exercise that examined 2,027 staff.
“The Kogi State Civil Service Commission, after a tedious verification, recommended the reinstatement Of 441 of these workers as genuine, qualified employees unjustly laid off.
“The Commission is waiting for your order to reinstate them. We humbly urge you to issue the reinstatement order and return these workers to their duty posts soon, and those due for retirement can enjoy their retirement benefits and pensions, ” he prayed. (ephemeralnews.com.ng)
