Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey singing solidarity song during the May Day event.
By Ita Williams, Calabar
The Governor of Cross River State, Senator Bassey Edet Otu, has saluted the contributions and sacrifices of workers across the state, describing them as the “heartbeat of Cross River.”
His message was delivered by the Deputy Governor, Rt. Hon. Peter Odey, during the 2025 International Workers’ Day celebration held in Calabar Sports Stadium on May 1.
In a speech rich with praises and solemn reflection, Governor Otu said Workers’ Day is more than a ceremonial holiday, calling it “a sacred tribute to the indomitable spirit of our workers.”
He commended their dedication, describing them as “the unseen architects of our advancement” and the engine driving governance, commerce, and community life.
“From the chalk-stained blackboards of our classrooms to the quiet corners of hospital wards… the fingerprints of our workforce are everywhere,” he said adding, “You are the heartbeat of Cross River.”
Expressing gratitude on behalf of the government and people, the Governor acknowledged the pliability of workers through seasons of both plenty and scarcity.
He praised their loyalty not just to government, but to a shared vision of a greater Cross River State, saying, “You have not asked for handouts; you have asked for fairness… and I give you my solemn assurance: you are heard”..
Addressing pressing labour concerns, Otu acknowledged the calls for improved welfare packages, timely promotions, and dignified working conditions and emphasized the administration’s commitment to responding to these needs and creating a more equitable environment for workers at all levels.
The Governor also highlighted ongoing efforts to prepare the workforce for a rapidly changing global economy and announced increased investment in digital literacy, vocational training, and merit-based career advancement. “We must not just be busy; we must be brilliant. We must not only work harder, we must work smarter,” he added.
To labour unions and youth, Otu offered words of partnership and encouragement and praised union leaders for being “the conscience of conscience” and urged young people to embrace honest work regardless of status.
He also paid special tribute to women and senior citizens in the workforce, promising to uphold their rights, safety, and post-retirement welfare.
Governor Otu called on workers to recommit to excellence, unity, and innovation.
“Let us reject the culture of mediocrity and embrace the fire of innovation. As your governor, I pledge once more that I will walk with you, work with you, and build with you. We will rise together. We will shine together,” he declared.
