In a powerful May Day gesture that struck a chord with thousands of Kogi workers, Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo delivered what many are calling one of the most impactful Workers’ Day speeches in the state’s recent history — unveiling bold relief measures and long-awaited reforms aimed at lifting the burden on everyday civil servants.
At the packed Muhammadu Buhari Civic Centre in Lokoja, emotions ran high as Governor Ododo announced an extension of the state’s tax relief policy for another full year — a move welcomed with cheers from workers facing rising living costs and shrinking wages.
“We know what our workers are going through,” Governor Ododo said.
“This is not just policy — it’s empathy. We’re here to make life easier for those who keep this state running.”
His Special adviser on media, Ismaila Isa in a statement explained the one-year extension pushes the expiration of the original tax holiday — first introduced in October 2024 alongside a new N72,500 minimum wage — to October 2026, giving workers more breathing space amid national inflation and economic uncertainty.
In another major policy shift, Governor Ododo raised the retirement age for health professionals to 65 years and approved a 40-year career ceiling, ensuring that Kogi retains experienced hands in the critical healthcare sector.
“This is how we protect our people — by retaining the wisdom and skills of our most experienced healthcare workers,” he said.
Beyond words, Ododo backed his pro-labour stance with action: a new water facility was approved for the Comrade Onuh Edoka Labour House to improve conditions at the NLC Secretariat and support nearby communities.
He also reaffirmed his administration’s priorities to include prompt salary payments, harmonized pensions, free healthcare for pensioners, and growing investments in education, agriculture, and youth empowerment.
Kogi State NLC Chairman, Comrade Gabriel Amari, captured the mood of the day:
“We’ve never had it this good. This government is listening, responding, and acting. That’s all workers want, to be seen, heard, and valued.”
The Head of Service, Dr. Elijah Evinemi, also hailed the administration’s “genuine concern for workers” and called on citizens to rally behind the reforms.
As the crowd dispersed with smiles and renewed hope, one thing was clear, May Day in Kogi wasn’t just celebrated, it was felt.
