International Workers’ Day : Cross River Governor Describes Labour As Heartbeat To Nation’s Economy
The Governor of Cross River State, Senator (Prince) Bassey Edet Otu, has issued a heartfelt solidarity message to mark International Workers’ Day, celebrating the dedication and resilience of the state’s workforce.
In his address, delivered by Deputy Governor Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, Governor Otu described workers as the “heartbeat of Cross River,” praising their contributions across sectors-from education and healthcare to commerce and public service.
He emphasized that Workers’ Day is not just a holiday, but a “sacred tribute to the indomitable spirit” of those who drive the state’s progress.
Governor Otu acknowledged the sacrifices and loyalty of workers, especially during challenging times, and assured them that their calls for better welfare, timely promotions, and dignified working conditions are being heard. He highlighted his administration’s efforts to revive the public service, ensure prompt salary payments, clear backlogs, and invest in workforce training and digital literacy.
The Governor also commended labour unions for their advocacy and called for continued partnership, stressing the need for innovation, discipline, and unity as the state adapts to new economic realities. Special recognition was given to women in the workforce and retirees, with promises of ongoing support and improved welfare.
Governor Otu concluded by urging all workers to recommit to excellence and integrity, reaffirming his pledge to work alongside them for a brighter future in Cross River State.
“And as your Governor, I feel the gravity of your expectations. I feel the urgency of your cries for better welfare package, timely promotions, reliable pensions, and an environment that dignifies your noble labour. You have not asked for handouts; you have asked for fairness. You have not demanded privilege; you have asked for recognition. And I give you my solemn assurance: you are heard. You are seen. You matter.
“That is why, from the first day of this administration, we have prioritized the revival and strengthening of the public service architecture. We have re-established the dignity of timely salary payments, reactivated stalled promotions, and commenced the painful yet necessary task of clearing backlogs and gratuity burdens that had long become shadows over the lives of our retirees. We are reforming the structure, not just the surface. We are not chasing applause—we are chasing sustainability.
“But this celebration is not just about the past, it is about the horizon before us.
We are entering a new era, a time where technology, innovation, and global shifts will redefine how we work, live, and grow. And in that unfolding era, the strength of our workforce must be not only its loyalty but also its literacy, its creativity, its adaptability. That is why this administration is investing in digital literacy programmes, workforce training, and renewed emphasis on merit-based progression.
” We must not just be busy, we must be brilliant. We must not only work harder, we must work smarter