Gombe governor reaffirms commitment to security, economy as workers mark May Day

Gombe State Governor, Muhammadu Yahaya, joined civil servants in the state on Friday to commemorate the 2026 International Workers’ Day at the Pantami Township Stadium.

The governor, who was represented by his deputy, Manassah Jatau, congratulated the workforce and highlighted the global importance of the celebration.

Jatau praised the resilience and dedication of workers, linking their contributions to the state’s development. He noted that this year’s May Day theme, “Insecurity, Poverty  Bane of Decent Work,” accurately reflects current challenges affecting Nigeria’s economy and citizens’ livelihoods.

He called for a collective approach to tackling insecurity, stressing that the responsibility does not rest solely on security agencies. According to him, the administration has prioritised security through active collaboration with operatives to protect lives and property.

The deputy governor also drew a connection between security and economic growth, urging civil servants to support government efforts in maintaining peace. He encouraged workers to enhance their skills and improve their performance for the greater good of governance.

On gender inclusion, Jatau observed that no job is strictly reserved for any particular gender. He cited the recent training of fifteen women as truck drivers by Ashaka Cement Plc as evidence of progress in empowering women economically.

Responding to demands from the Nigeria Labour Congress, the deputy governor assured workers of the government’s commitment to their welfare. He said the demands would be forwarded to the governor for prompt consideration, adding that the administration would continue to ensure regular payment of salaries and other entitlements.

In his address, the state NLC Chairman, Comrade Yusuf Bello, commended the government for clearing long-overdue gratuities from 2012 to date, a move he said had brought relief to many families. He also acknowledged the construction of the Three-Arm Zone as a modern administrative hub, which he described as a step toward improving working conditions for civil servants.

Another NLC representative, Comrade Aish Bello, said the theme of the celebration was timely given the insecurity challenges that have raised the cost of living across the country.

He listed key union demands, including enhanced monthly pension adjustments, recruitment to fill gaps in the civil service, and the revitalisation of the Gombe State Printing and Publishing Company, which is struggling due to outdated equipment.

The Trade Union Congress state chairman, Comrade Auwalu Abdu, described the gathering as a platform to appreciate the government’s role in ensuring security and peace.

He called on all workers to remain united and support government efforts to combat insecurity for the prosperity and peaceful coexistence of the state.