Workers’ Day 2026: Sheriff Oborevwori Vows Stronger Welfare, Tackles Insecurity and Poverty in Delta

Governor Sheriff Oborevwori has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to improving workers’ welfare, declaring that insecurity and poverty remain the biggest threats to decent work in Delta State and Nigeria.

Speaking during the 2026 International Workers’ Day celebration in Asaba, the Governor represented by his deputy, Sir Monday Onyeme said his government is focused on protecting workers’ rights, ensuring fair conditions, and expanding economic opportunities.

Insecurity, Poverty Threaten Workers’ Productivity
Addressing the theme “Insecurity, Poverty – Bane of Decent Work,” Oborevwori warned that rising insecurity continues to disrupt livelihoods, discourage investment, and put workers at risk.

He added that poverty weakens productivity, strips citizens of dignity, and limits access to meaningful employment.

According to him, urgent action is needed to restore the value of work through improved security, sustainable job creation, fair wages, and stronger social protection systems.

Delta Govt Highlights Key Achievements
The Governor said his administration has recorded significant progress in workers’ welfare since assuming office in May 2023 under the M.O.R.E Agenda.

Key measures include:
Prompt payment of salaries
Regular promotion of civil servants
Construction of residential quarters for Permanent Secretaries
Expansion of training and capacity-building programmes

He noted that targeted recruitment in education and healthcare sectors is already strengthening service delivery across the state.

Pension Payments, Social Support Expanded
Oborevwori disclosed that his government has cleared pension backlogs for state workers and addressed outstanding liabilities at the local government level, ensuring dignity for retirees.

He also highlighted social intervention programmes such as the M.O.R.E Grant Scheme and D-CARES initiative, which have supported traders, artisans, and small business owners across Delta State.

Investment in Education, Youth Development
The administration, he said, continues to invest in bursaries and scholarships to ensure that no child in Delta State is denied access to education due to financial challenges.

“Development is about people,” the Governor stressed, noting that a well-paid worker, empowered entrepreneur, and educated child are the real indicators of progress.

Labour Unions Commend Industrial Peace
The Nigeria Labour Congress and the Trade Union Congress of Nigeria in Delta State praised the government for maintaining industrial harmony over the past three years.

In a joint statement delivered by Comrade Goodluck Ofobruku, the unions said the 2026 Workers’ Day theme reflects the realities facing millions of workers in Nigeria and globally.