May Day: Gov.  Inuwa praises Gombe workers, promises improved welfare, safer workplaces

May Day: Gov.  Inuwa praises Gombe workers, promises improved welfare, safer workplaces

By Auwal Ahmad Umar

Governor Muhammadu Inuwa Yahaya has commended workers in Gombe State for their contributions to governance and development, pledging sustained efforts to improve their welfare and working conditions.

In a message to mark the 2026 International Workers’ Day, the governor described the workforce as central to his administration’s achievements and future plans.

“Workers are the driving force behind governance and development in Gombe State,” he said.

The statement, issued on Friday in Gombe by the Director-General of Press Affairs, Ismaila Uba Misilli, quoted the governor as appreciating the resilience and commitment of workers across sectors.

“Today, we celebrate the determination and hard work of our workforce. Your sacrifices are the pillars of our achievements,” Mr Yahaya said.

He reiterated his administration’s commitment to prioritising workers’ welfare, noting that Gombe was among the first states to implement the national minimum wage.

“Even in the face of economic challenges, we have ensured consistent payment of salaries, pensions and entitlements,” he added.

The governor also assured that his government would clear outstanding gratuities owed to retirees at both state and local government levels.

“We are committed to clearing all outstanding gratuities owed to our retirees,” he said.

Speaking on the 2026 Workers’ Day theme, *“Ensuring Safety and Health at Work in a Changing Climate”,* the governor said the government has taken steps to improve workplace conditions.

“Our goal is to create safer, healthier and more productive workplaces for every worker,” he said.

He also acknowledged the role of organised labour in maintaining industrial harmony in the state.

“The cooperation of organised labour has been key to maintaining industrial peace in our state,” he noted.

Gov. Yahaya said his recent approval for the full implementation of the new national minimum wage for local government workers would take effect from May 2026, covering staff of the 11 local government councils, local education authorities and primary healthcare workers.

“We have achieved 100 per cent implementation of the national minimum wage for local government workers,” he said.

The governor urged workers to remain committed despite economic challenges and called on residents to maintain peace as political activities intensify.

“I urge all citizens to remain peaceful, united and responsible as we approach the political season,” he said.

He reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to placing workers at the centre of governance while promoting fairness and inclusive development across the state.