A high-powered delegation of national labour leaders have landed the Kebbi State Governor, Dr Nasir Idris, Kauran Gwandu, on Tuesday during a courtesy visit at the Government House, Birnin Kebbi, where he also hosted them to an Iftar (breaking of fast).
Welcoming the delegation, Governor Idris described the visiting labour leaders as a “very powerful team” with strong influence not only in Nigeria but across the global labour movement.
“You are not only known in Nigeria but globally. I am happy to associate myself with you, and I want to assure you that the people of Kebbi State are equally happy ,” the Governor stated.
Governor Idris reiterated his administration’s unwavering commitment to workers’ welfare, noting that his government has sustained prompt payment of salaries, as well as regular settlement of gratuities and pensions.
He emphasized that in the history of Kebbi State, no administration has prioritized workers’ welfare as much as his government has done within the last two years.
He recalled his campaign promise not to disappoint labour unions and the good people of Kebbi State, stressing that he has fulfilled that pledge through the execution of landmark projects. These include the construction of ultra-modern State Secretariat, expansion of roads networks, installation of solar-powered street lights, development of a modern motor park in Birnin Kebbi and numerous other projects across the State.
He further disclosed that the labour leaders would be taken on an inspection tour of some of the completed projects.
Governor Idris described the newly commissioned State Secretariat inaugurated by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, as the best in Northern Nigeria, noting that it has the capacity to accommodate over 25,000 workers.
“Today, Birnin Kebbi is looking like any other state capital in Nigeria. The era of describing Birnin Kebbi as a glorified Local Government Area is over,” he declared.
Speaking on behalf of the delegation, Comrade Hassan Sunmonu, pioneer President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), expressed delight at the visit.
He recalled passing through Kebbi in 1981 as NLC President en route from Abuja to Niamey for an official engagement, and commended the remarkable transformation he has now witnessed under Governor Idris’ leadership.
“We are proud that the Governor is one of us. He is representing labour well, and making us proud,” he said.
Comrade Sunmonu presented a copy of a book he authored to the Governor, describing him as an inspiration to others, and praying for Allah’s continued guidance, protection , and successful second term in office.
Other prominent labour leaders in the delegation included Comrade Abdul Waheed Ibrahim Umar, former National President of the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) and former NLC President; Comrade Ayuba Wabba, former NLC President; and the incumbent NLC President, Comrade Joe Ajaero.
In a related development, Governor Idris also hosted members of the Kebbi State Executive Council to Iftar at the Government House on the same day.
