By PAMELA EBOH, Awka

Anambra State Governor, Prof Chukwuma Soludo, on Friday advocated for transition from traditional “protest unionism” to a model focused on national development and wealth creation.

Addressing the state work force at the 2026 Workers’ Day celebration held at Alex Ekwueme Square, Awka, the Governor called for a fundamental shift in the philosophy of organized labor.

Soludo who laid out a vision for a more collaborative relationship between the state government and its workforce, pinpointed a clear challenge to the union leaders present, saying, “I leave a message with you—our labour unions should head towards development-oriented unionism, from protest unionism.

“I know the origin of unionism. We are in the business of making demands; that’s why agreements had in the past did not work.”

The Governor stressed that labor must become a partner in wealth creation rather than a mere adversary in negotiations for the state to thrive.

He urged workers to be the change they wish to see, asking pointedly, “What have you done as a union to ensure that the workers themselves are delivering their services? Do your own part. Don’t abdicate it.”

On his administration’s achievements, Soludo observed that the feedback from his campaigns in Anambra markets has been overwhelmingly one of gratitude, arguing that his administration’s policies provide a “holistic benefit” to all the 9 million residents of the state, including the organized labor force.

He highlighted key achievements in infrastructure, such as in road projects benefiting commuters and workers alike, healthcare especially in free antenatal care and delivery services, as well as economic stability.

While noting that the South East is officially “back to work, with the end to the ‘sit-at-home’ syndrome, the Governor added, “When we lift the boat for everyone, the Anambra workers are the greatest beneficiaries.

He slso affirmed his commitment to continued investment, even as he acknowledged

He said: “Resources are not infinite. More help is on the way for the social sectors. This administration has already recruited more teachers at once than total numbers in previous administrations.

“There will be more recruitment of teachers as soon as possible. Education and health as the pillars of Anambra’s future. When our resources improve, sooner or later, our schools will get more attention- we must prioritize it.”

The Governor further announced that the government would intensify the deployment of technology for monitoring worker attendance.

“We must reinvent our public service, but people have to show up,” Governor Soludo insisted. He concluded by expressing his affinity for the workforce while maintaining a firm stance on productivity: “I love the workers. We will get to it, [but] we have to do more to demand for more”, he stated.

Speaking on behalf of Organized Labour, the NLC State Chairman, Comrade Humphrey Nwafor, described Workers’ Day as a globally recognized occasion dedicated to honoring the invaluable contributions of workers to nation-building.

He emphasized that the core of the civil servants’ struggle remains the pursuit of fairness, dignity, and equity in the workplace.

Comrade Nwafor further advocated for fair remuneration, job security, and social protection for all members.

He however lamented that persistent insecurity continues to weaken the foundation of development, forcing many workers into a “survival mode.”

He used the occasion to call for significance strengthening of the security apparatus to protect the workforce, which informed the choice of the theme.

While acknowledging these challenges and more, the Chairman recognized and applauded Governor Soludo for his bold vision for Anambra State, even as he assured the Governor that Organized Labour would continue to stand with his administration in a constructive manner.

Present at the event were the Deputy Governor, Dr. Onyekachukwu Ibezim, Speaker of the State House of Assembly, Rt. Hon. Somtochukwu Udeze, Secretary to the State Government, Mrs. Chiamaka Nnake, among others.