By Abdulwahab Muhammad Senior Special Assistant on Communication to the Governor of Bauchi State
A Day to Honour Labour, A Moment to Reflect on RealityAt the 2026 International Workers’ Day celebration held at the Abubakar Tafawa Balewa Stadium, Bauchi State Governor, Senator Bala Abdulkadir Mohammed, delivered a compelling message that cut to the heart of Nigeria’s labour challenges:“Insecurity and poverty do not only threaten livelihoods — they undermine dignity, productivity, and the very essence of decent work.”The Governor aligned with the global theme of the day, stressing that the twin challenges of insecurity and poverty remain the most pressing obstacles facing workers today.Workers at the Center of DevelopmentGovernor Bala Mohammed praised the resilience and sacrifices of workers, describing them as the backbone of Bauchi State’s socio-economic growth.He called on workers across sectors to rise to the occasion:“Nation-building requires resilience, discipline, and a shared sense of responsibility.”Payroll Reforms and Financial Discipline Paying OffHighlighting key reforms, the Governor revealed that his administration has strengthened payroll management through a credible nominal roll system, eliminating leakages and ensuring transparency.This, he noted, has enabled:Sustained payment of salaries and pensionsBetter allocation of resources to developmental projectsImproved financial discipline across government institutionsAgriculture as a Tool Against PovertyIn a strategic move to tackle poverty, the administration has intensified agricultural interventions aimed at empowering workers and citizens.Key initiatives include:Work-free days for civil servants during farming seasonsSubsidized fertilizer loan schemesExpanded livelihood support programmesThese efforts, according to the Governor, are designed to boost food security, create wealth, and reduce dependency.Security: A Collective ResponsibilityOn insecurity, Governor Bala Mohammed reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to safeguarding lives and property through collaboration with security agencies and communities.He issued a strong civic call:“Say something when you see something strange.”Civil Service Reforms and Capacity BuildingThe Governor emphasized ongoing reforms aimed at repositioning the civil service for efficiency and professionalism:Implementation of Service CharterMerit-based promotionsStrategic deployment of personnelContinuous recruitment to strengthen capacityThe 2025 recruitment exercise, he added, is already yielding results with new officers joining the workforce.Minimum Wage Leadership and Worker WelfareBauchi State remains among the first to implement the ₦70,000 national minimum wage — a commitment the Governor says has been sustained despite economic pressures.Additional welfare efforts include:Improved working conditionsRenovation of government facilitiesEnhanced worker support systemsA Model of Labour-Government HarmonyGovernor Bala Mohammed commended labour unions in the state for maintaining industrial peace and cooperation.“Our partnership with organized labour remains vital to achieving peace, progress, and shared prosperity.”Closing Note: Commitment in Challenging TimesThe Governor reaffirmed his administration’s unwavering support for workers:“We will continue to stand by our workers and build a civil service that is resilient, efficient, and responsive.”“Insecurity and poverty are the bane of decent work — and we must confront them together.”
