…Pledges Immediate Recruitment Of More Teachers.
Governor Chukwuma Soludo has
advocated for development-oriented unionism as against protest-oriented unionism, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to universal Anambra workers, beyond the civil servants.
Prof. Soludo while delivering the keynote address at the 2026 Workers’ Day celebration, held at Alex Ekwueme Square, Awka, on Friday, called for a fundamental shift in the philosophy of organized labor.
The Governor laid out a vision for a more collaborative relationship between the state government and its workforce. He also called for a transition from traditional “protest unionism” to a model focused on national development and wealth creation.
Soludo assured Anambra workers that the state government will recruit more teachers into public schools as soon as possible, describing education and health as the twin pillars of the state’s future.
The Governor emphasized his administration’s unwavering commitment to prioritizing these critical sectors, despite the prevailing economic challenges. He declared to that education and health are Anambra’s future, and must be prioritized.
Soludo commended the resilience and dedication of Anambra workers, acknowledging their sacrifices in building the state’s economy, highlighted ongoing reforms in the education sector, including massive infrastructure upgrades.
Prof. Soludo challenging the union leaders, emphasized that for the state to thrive, labor must become a partner in wealth creation rather than a mere adversary in negotiations. He urged workers to be the change they wish to see.
Prof. Soludo reiterate his vision of a livable and prosperous Anambra, where quality education and accessible healthcare remain the bedrock of development.
Reflecting on his administration’s achievements, Soludo noted that the feedback from his campaigns in Anambra markets has been full of gratitude. He argued that his administration’s policies provide a “holistic benefit” to all the 9 million residents of the state, including the organized labor force.
The Governor highlighted key achievements in infrastructure, such as in road projects benefiting commuters and workers alike, healthcare especially in free antenatal care and delivery services, as well as economic stability, noting that the South East is officially “back to work, with the end to the ‘sit-at-home’ syndrome”
In his address, the State Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Comrade Humphrey Nwafor, praised Soludo’s administration for its pro-worker policies, including the regular payment of salaries, minimum wage implementation, and the payment of gratuities to retirees, however called for accelerated action on improved working conditions across all sectors.
Comrade Nwafor, described Workers’ Day as a globally recognized occasion dedicated to honoring the invaluable contributions of workers to nation-building. He emphasized that the core of their struggle remains the pursuit of fairness, dignity, and equity in the workplace.
The NLC Chairman advocated for fair remuneration, job security, and social protection for all members. He lamented that persistent insecurity continues to weaken the foundation of development, forcing many workers into a “survival mode.”
Nwafor called for security to be significantly strengthened to protect the workforce, which informed the choice of the theme. He recognized and applauded Governor Soludo for his bold vision for Anambra State, assuring that Organized Labour would continue to stand with his administration in a constructive manner.
Angel Network News (ANN) reports that
highlight of the 2026 Labour Day celebration was the march past by various trade unions and civil service groups.
