Ondo State Governor, Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, has described workers as the backbone of the state’s development, commending their dedication, resilience, and integrity in driving the achievements recorded by his administration.
Speaking at the 2025 Workers’ Day celebration held at the Gani Fawehinmi Freedom Arcade in Akure, the Governor lauded civil servants as “the hands that build, the minds that innovate, and the hearts that care,” stressing that no progress is possible without their sacrifices.
“Our modest achievements across sectors—education, health, infrastructure, and governance—have only been possible because of your hard work. You are the true engine of our state,” Aiyedatiwa stated.
Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to workers’ welfare, the Governor announced that Ondo was among the first states to adopt the N70,000 minimum wage and even surpassed it by approving N73,000. He also disclosed that retirees now receive a monthly pension of N30,000.
On career progression, the Governor noted that promotions are up to date, with the 2025 exercise in progress. He highlighted the recruitment of over 2,000 new teachers, along with other key appointments in health and public administration. In addition, the government has cleared a backlog of three years’ gratuities owed to retirees.
“We will not trade workers’ welfare for politics. Your well-being remains a top priority of this administration,” he assured, adding that investments in education, health, and human capacity development would continue.
Governor Aiyedatiwa also applauded the industrial peace in the state, attributing it to the support of labour leaders and the alignment of workers with the government’s ‘OUR EASE’ policy agenda.
“You are the pride of our past, the strength of our present, and the hope of our future. Today, we honour and celebrate you,” he concluded.
In his remarks, Ondo NLC Chairperson, Comrade Ademola Olapade, praised the Governor for his inclusive governance and commitment to civil servants, citing the new minimum wage, 2024 promotions, and mass recruitment of teachers. He also called for a review of the law establishing Owena Press PLC to grant it agency status for better career structure.
TUC Chairman, Comrade Clement Fatuase, echoed similar sentiments, commending the administration’s efforts in education, healthcare, and infrastructure.
Head of Service, Mr. Bayo Philip, encouraged workers to remain dedicated, assuring them of government’s unwavering support.
The event, which featured a colourful workers’ parade, had in attendance top government officials, labour leaders, and key stakeholders, including Deputy Governor Dr. Olayide Adelami, SSG Dr. Taiwo Fasoranti, Chief Judge Justice Olusegun Odusola, and Speaker Rt. Hon. Olamide Oladiji (represented).
