By Jose Oby 
Delta State Governor, Rt. Hon. Sheriff Oborevwori, has hailed the contributions of workers to the progress of government, describing them as the backbone of development. The Governor’s remarks were delivered on Thursday in Asaba by his Deputy, Sir Monday Onyeme, during the 2025 Workers’ Day celebration.
Governor Oborevwori emphasized that Workers’ Day is more than a celebration—it is a time for reflection and renewed commitment to building a Delta State and a Nigeria where every worker is valued, empowered, and rewarded.
Reflecting on the theme of this year’s celebration, “Reclaiming the Civic Space in the Midst of Economic Hardship,” the Governor noted its relevance, calling it a rallying cry for citizens to defend their rights and participate actively in civic life, even in challenging times.
“I stand with all Deltans, and indeed all Nigerians, in honoring our hardworking men and women today,” he said. “From civil servants and teachers to healthcare professionals, artisans, farmers, and private sector workers—you are the foundation of our progress, and I salute you all.”
Governor Oborevwori reiterated his administration’s unwavering commitment to workers’ welfare, pledging continued pursuit of policies that uplift families and promote dignity. “We acknowledge the global economic pressures, rising living costs, and unemployment,” he said. “But be assured, my administration is working diligently to cushion these impacts.”
He outlined various initiatives under his M.O.R.E. Agenda aimed at enhancing workers’ welfare, including:
- Prompt payment of salaries and pensions
- Clearing of pension backlogs
- Introduction of skill development and training programs
- Upgrades to workplaces, healthcare centers, and schools
- Support for entrepreneurship, small businesses, and agriculture
- Ongoing infrastructure projects to reduce costs and stimulate the economy
The Governor also highlighted the introduction of a whistle-blower policy with a dedicated phone line to promote transparency and accountability in governance. “This initiative protects workers who report misconduct, ensuring their voices are heard and public resources are properly managed,” he said.
Governor Oborevwori urged workers to remain committed to excellence and unity in pursuit of a prosperous Delta. “Let us remember those who have fought for labour dignity, and let their sacrifices inspire us to build fair and just workplaces,” he added. “Our doors remain open for dialogue with workers’ unions, as collaboration is key to lasting progress.”
Earlier, in a joint address, Comrade Goodluck Ofobruku, Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) Delta State, and Comrade Martins Bolum, Chairman of the Trade Union Congress (TUC), called on workers to unite and reclaim their civic space despite prevailing economic challenges. They acknowledged the resilience of Nigerian workers in the face of adversity.
The celebration featured a colorful match-past parade by various trade unions, including contingents from the Academic Staff Union of Secondary Schools (ASUSS), Delta State Chapter.