Governor Seyi Makinde has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to the welfare of Oyo State civil servants. He vowed to maintain policies that ensure economic stability and workplace safety despite national challenges.
The Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Musibau Babatunde, delievered the Governor’s message during the 2026 Workers’ Day Celebration held Friday at the Lekan Salami Sports Complex in Ibadan. This year’s event was themed “Insecurity, Poverty – Bane of Decent Work.”
Security as a Foundation for Labour
Addressing the core theme, Makinde identified insecurity as a primary obstacle to state productivity. He argued that economic growth is impossible without a secure environment and detailed his administration’s recent investments in the security sector.
”The security of lives and property would continue to be a priority for his administration, as it would never allow insecurity to hurt the economic prosperity being enjoyed in the state,” the Governor stated.
He noted that the state has bolstered its security architecture through the Amotekun Corps and increased inter-agency collaboration. These efforts, he added, include the deployment of new equipment and technological support for rapid response teams involving the police and military.
2026 Workers Day: Relief for Oyo State Workers’ Welfare
In response to the current economic hardship in Nigeria, the Governor highlighted several ongoing social safety nets designed to protect the state’s workforce.
Key initiatives mentioned include:
- Transport Subsidy: A monthly N10,000 payment to workers and pensioners to mitigate rising fuel costs.
- Financial Support: Continued access to government-backed housing and car loans.
- Digital Reform: Ongoing efforts to digitalise public service operations to increase transparency and reduce administrative bottlenecks.
Makinde credited the state’s workforce for their role in the administration’s success over the past seven years, stating that their contributions have been vital to the development of Oyo State.
Labour Unions Call for Federal Action
While acknowledging the state’s efforts, labour leaders used the platform to highlight the severe impact of inflation on the average worker.
Comrade Kayode Martins, Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), and Comrade Bosun Olabiyi-Agoro, Chairman of the Trade Union Congress (TUC), lamented the struggles of citizens under the current economic climate. The leaders urged the Federal Government to formalise crude subsidies for modular refiners to lower energy costs.
The union chairmen commended the state government for maintaining industrial harmony but issued a call for further action regarding wage adjustments and pension reviews to match the rising cost of living. “Many workers still face economic pressure amid inflation,” they noted, advocating for policies that reflect contemporary financial realities.
Solidarity and Support
The celebration featured fraternal messages from traditional and federal figures. The Aseyin of Iseyin, Oba Sefiu Oyebola, and representatives from the Federal Ministry of Labour urged the workforce to remain steadfast in their duties to the nation.
The event concluded with a series of solidarity marches and cultural displays by various trade unions. High-ranking officials in attendance included the Head of Service, Mrs Olubunmi Oni, along with various Commissioners and Permanent Secretaries.
