As Nigerians commemorate International Workers’ Day, suspended Rivers State Governor, Siminalayi Fubara, has reaffirmed his commitment to the welfare, rights, and dignity of workers across the state. In a heartfelt message released on May 1, 2025, Fubara commended the enduring resilience of the state’s workforce, describing them as the cornerstone of progress and a symbol of hope amid ongoing political unrest.
The governor’s statement, issued by his Chief Press Secretary, Nelson Chukwudi, emphasized the crucial role of workers in sustaining the socio-economic development of Rivers State, especially during a period marked by political tension and leadership disputes. Despite these setbacks, Fubara praised Rivers workers for upholding integrity, professionalism, and patriotism in the face of adversity.
Fubara’s message was aligned with the 2025 Workers’ Day theme, “Ensuring Safety and Health at Work in a Changing Climate,” which underscores the increasing risks workers face due to environmental challenges and workplace hazards. He called for urgent and coordinated action to improve occupational safety standards, especially in light of Nigeria’s changing climate realities.
“The need to protect the workforce from occupational risks is no longer negotiable,” the governor stated. “In this era of environmental instability and economic difficulty, we must build resilient, safe, and inclusive workplaces.”
Governor Fubara commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and the Federal Government for their ongoing efforts to reform labour policies and encourage environmentally conscious workplace standards nationwide. He urged all tiers of government and private sector employers to align with these reforms and remain faithful to national labour laws.
Reaffirming his administration’s commitment to workers’ welfare, Fubara called on all employers to respect the rights of employees, ensure fair wages, and maintain conducive working conditions. He noted that legal compliance and moral obligation should guide every labour-related decision.
Fubara further declared that justice will ultimately prevail in Rivers State. Although his suspension remains a contentious political issue, he expressed confidence that the forces of justice, unity, and peace will triumph over division and unrest.
“I urge the good people of Rivers to remain steadfast, hopeful, and united,” he said. “In due time, the principles of fairness, equity, and progress will be restored.”
He concluded his message with prayers for divine wisdom for all leaders and reiterated his unwavering resolve to foster an environment where dignity, opportunity, and prosperity thrive for all Rivers citizens.
The Workers’ Day statement arrives at a sensitive time for Rivers State politics, with ongoing tensions between rival factions in the state assembly and mounting calls for national intervention. Nonetheless, Fubara’s message underscores his continued engagement with governance, even while facing suspension.
As Nigeria grapples with economic challenges, inflation, and worker discontent, his words are a poignant reminder of the central role labour plays in national development — and the urgent need to protect that foundation at all costs.