Labour Strike: sheath your sword, give government more time to negotiate – Governor otu appeals to NLC/TUC
Cross River State Governor, Senator Prince Bassey Otu has called on the leadership of the Nigeria Labour Congress to sheath their swords and give government more time to negotiate.
The governor spoke through his deputy, Mr. Peter Odey during a Thanksgiving Service to commemorate Nigeria’s 63rd Independence Anniversary on Sunday, October 1, 2023, at the Presbyterian Church of Nigeria, Hope Wadel Parish, Calabar.
In his speech, the Governor opined that “As a government, we have pledged to prioritize the welfare and well-being of our citizens. We have promised a ‘People-First’ approach to governance and today, I want to assure you that your commitment to the development of our state remains unwavering and we are determined to create an environment where businesses can thrive and create job opportunities for our people”
In his sermon, His Eminence Ekpeyong Akpanika, the Prelate of the Presbyterian Church of Nigeria, Hope Waddle Parish Calabar, expressed mixed feelings of joy and sadness as Nigeria celebrated its independence.
He emphasized the need for reflection, as both the government and the people have a responsibility to build a legacy for the next generation.
The Prelate reminisced on the once-organized state of education, transportation, and a vibrant middle class and called on leaders at all levels to become generational thinkers and also take action to build a better future for the next generation.
According to the Prelate, true greatness lies in serving others, not in personal achievements or possessions. He reminded everyone that the service rendered today may benefit their children in the future.
The Prelate commended the achievements of the Bassey Otu-led administration, particularly on waste management, security intervention, and welfare gestures to the less privileged.
However, he encouraged them to do more and urged the government to empower the youth by redirecting their energy towards sports.
He stressed the importance of investing in agriculture and technological advancements to keep up with the competitive world.
The Prelate concluded with prayers for the success, guidance, and sustenance of the current administration while admonishing the Governor to surround himself with men and women of vision to take the state to the next level.
The event was attended by prominent citizens of the state, including the Speaker of the House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Elvert Ayambem, the Chief Judge of the state, His Lordship, Justice Akon Ikpeme, the Obong of Calabar and members of the Obong’s Council.
Others were members of the State Executive Council, the Secretary to the State Government, Prof. Anthony Owan Enoch, Service Chiefs, top government functionaries, elder statesmen among others.
