The President of the Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE), Comrade Olatunji Akeem, honored Governor Ahmadu Umaru Fintiri of Adamawa State with the title of “the most Labour-friendly governor in Nigeria.” In a ceremony held in Yola, on Tuesday.
This award was bestowed in recognition of Governor Fintiri’s consistent efforts to support labor rights and his implementation of the N30,000 minimum wage across all levels of government employees in the state.
Comrade Akeem highlighted that Governor Fintiri was the first to ensure that both state and local government workers received the N30,000 minimum wage.
This achievement set a precedent for labor rights within Nigeria and showcased the governor’s commitment to fair compensation for all government employees.
Further praising Governor Fintiri’s dedication to labor rights, Comrade Akeem noted that even before the Supreme Court ruled on local government autonomy, the governor had already initiated local government elections.
These elections were successfully conducted last weekend, further demonstrating his commitment to democratic processes and local governance.
Comrade Akeem also commended the Adamawa State government for involving labor union officials in state governance.
He urged Governor Fintiri to include more union members in his cabinet, asserting that their involvement would enhance the quality of governance.
In response to receiving the award, Governor Fintiri, represented by Deputy Governor Professor Kaletapwa George Farauta, expressed his gratitude to NULGE for the recognition.
He reiterated his administration’s guiding principle that “no one is left behind, and nothing is left untouched.” Governor Fintiri emphasized his belief in inclusive governance, stating, “Be it local government workers or state government workers, it’s my belief that everyone must be carried along.”
The governor also pointed out his administration’s efforts to empower local communities by allowing them to choose their leaders.
He mentioned that during his five years in office, his administration had conducted three local government elections.
Additionally, he appointed a former NULGE leader as a commissioner, who continues to serve as a member of the State Executive Council (SEC).
This recognition by NULGE underscores Governor Fintiri’s commitment to labor rights and inclusive governance, setting a standard for other states in Nigeria to follow.
