During the 2026 Workers’ Day celebration at Uyo Township Stadium, the Akwa Ibom State chapter of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) made a heartfelt plea to Governor Pastor Umo Eno. The union requested the establishment and full equipping of an Information and Communications Technology (ICT) center in the state. Comrade Sunny James, the NLC chairperson, emphasized that such a facility would enable workers unfamiliar with computers to gain essential digital skills at a low cost. He recalled that a similar appeal was made to the previous administration in 2022, expressing optimism that the renewed call would finally be addressed.
Additionally, the NLC called for increased funding for primary education. James highlighted the need to align pension and gratuity payments for retired teachers with those in other sectors. He pointed out that some teachers promoted in 2024 only recently received their promotion letters, meaning they lost out on two years of benefits. The union urged the governor to correct this anomaly.
Comrade Kingsley Akpan, chairperson of the Trade Union Congress (TUC) in the state, described this year’s theme—’Insecurity and Poverty: The Bane of Decent Work’—as fitting. He raised concerns about labor exploitation and alleged slavery in multinational companies operating in Akwa Ibom, stating that these firms often fail to pay lawful settlements. Akpan urged the government to intervene and ensure workers’ rights are protected. He also called for the realization of the Ibom Deep Seaport and Science Park, as well as the revival of ALSCON, noting the immense job potential of these projects.
In response, Governor Eno, represented by Deputy Governor Senator Akon Eyakenyi, congratulated the workers and reaffirmed his commitment to their welfare. He praised the constructive relationship between the government and organized labour, promising continued policies that prioritize workers’ interests.