The Akwa Ibom State Governor, Mr Udom Emmanuel has encouraged the organized Labour in the State to meaningfully engage persons seeking elective offices and ensure that they fulfil their electioneering promises.
The Governor stated this in Uyo while declaring open the fifth Triennial Delegates Conference of the Trade Union Congress, Akwa Ibom State Council.
Expanding on the theme of the Conference “2023 Elections and the Quest for Good Governance, A task before the organized Labour” Governor Emmanuel said the first step to contributing to the 2023 election was the acquisition of a voter card.
The State’s Chief Executive who was represented by the Head of Civil Service, Elder Effiong Essien, also thanked the Dominic Abang-led TUC for continually partnering with the State Government and ensuring sustained industrial harmony.
The State Chairman of the Trade Union Congress, Comrade Dominic Abang, presenting the score card for his three years tenure, mentioned cordial and reputable relationships with social partners, the inauguration of the women Commission, the opening of the secretariat, Foundation laying for a permanent secretariat as part of his achievements.
He attributed the success of his administration to the cooperation of members of his executive and all members of the union.
Comrade Abang further spoke on the need and steps to corporately move the union forward and sued for cooperation with the new executives.
In his keynote address, Dr Aniekan Brown of the University of Uyo emphasized the need for Labour to remain organized, and see themselves as critical stakeholders in the Nigerian project by refusing to remain on the fence in the effort to achieve actual democracy in Nigeria.
He described the gathering as a bold step towards cultivating the requisite interest of workers to achieve the status of a determinant force in who governs, stressing that such interest should outlive a particular event or constituency.
Goodwill messages were received from the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment, and the Commissioner for Labour and Manpower Planning among others.
Meanwhile, Comrade Dominic Abang has emerged chairman of the TUC, Akwa Ibom State council for another three years tenure.
He alongside seven other members of the union won in an election which was peaceful and cordial.
Comrade Uduak Ekpenyong also won as chairperson for the TUC women’s commission.
They both pledged not to let down the confidence reposed in them with Comrade Abang promising the delivery of the permanent secretariat as his primary aim.
