Kogi: The organised labour union in Kogi has urged Gov. Ahmed Ododo to address the perennial water scarcity in Lokoja by urgently restoring the Lokoja Greater Water Works to meet the ever-increasing demand. The state Council Chairman, Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Gabriel Amari, and that of Trade Union Congress (TUC), Ahmed Tijani, made the appeal during the 2025 Workers' Day celebration on Thursday in Lokoja.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Amari, speaking on behalf of the workers, commended the governor's efforts in reviving the Old Lokoja Water Works but pointed out that its capacity is insufficient to meet the water demand in the metropolis. He highlighted that the scarcity impacts workers' productivity and pushes residents to rely on untreated water sources, risking exposure to diseases. The indiscriminate drilling of boreholes has further depleted the aquifer, posing a threat to future generations. The labour unions emphasized the urgent need to repair and restore the Lokoja Greater Water Works to address the issue.
Furthermore, the unions appealed to the governor to settle the accumulated gratuity, easing the plight of retirees who have dedicated years to the state's development. They also highlighted the need for implementing outstanding promotions with financial backing to enhance the efficiency of the civil service.
While praising the Ododo administration's accomplishments in infrastructure, agriculture, and health, the unions acknowledged the governor's efforts in implementing the new national minimum wage, regular salary payments, and worker training programs. Ododo, in his remarks, appreciated the organised labour's commitment to the state's development and assured that workers' welfare remains a priority.
He highlighted his administration's efforts, including the release of N1.2 billion in a year for gratuity payments and promised to review the unions' requests for the benefit of Kogi's people.