By Karen James
In an effort to address the ongoing battle for a new national minimum wage, the Governor of Anambra state, Chukwuma Charles Soludo, has appealed to workers in the state, especially local government workers, to remain patient as negotiations between the government and organized labor are still underway.
Governor Soludo made this statement during the launch of the 2024 Local Government Service Commission Week at the Professor Dora Akunyili Women’s Development Centre in Awka on Tuesday. The event, organized by the Anambra State Local Government Service Commission, focused on the theme of “Value Rebirth Through Digital Transformation: Solution ICT Agenda.”
During his speech, Governor Soludo praised the commission’s leadership and members for their continued efforts to improve the local government system. He emphasized the importance of rebuilding the public service from top to bottom and urged them to play their role in ensuring that this process permeates throughout their respective workplaces.
Regarding the ongoing minimum wage negotiation, Governor Soludo assured the workers that once the law is passed by the federal government, his administration’s implementation committee will promptly address the matter. He expressed his disappointment in a society where many people want something for nothing and urged the workers to focus on delivering value. The governor also pledged to strive for financial viability in the local government system.
The Chairman of the Local Government Service Commission, Barr. Vin Ezeaka, reaffirmed their commitment to executing the solution mandate given by the governor. He reassured the workers that more efforts will be made to meet their needs and expectations.
Former Aviation Minister, Chief Osita Chidoka, delivered a keynote speech during the event, commending Governor Soludo’s dedication to value addition and encouraging him to continue engaging with various segments of society. Chief Chidoka emphasized the importance of civil conduct among public servants and called for the cultivation of empathy. He also urged attendees to consider the minimum output that could contribute to the growth of the national economy.
The event celebrated the contributions of local government workers and aimed to promote the work of the Local Government Service Commission. It was attended by notable figures such as the Chief of Staff to the Governor, Mr. Ernest Ezeajughi, Commissioner for Local Government, Chieftaincy and Community Affairs, Mr. Tony-Collins Nwabunwanne, and various local government workers and traditional rulers.
