As Nigeria joins the rest of the world to observe the 2020 International Labour Day, Benue State Governor, Samuel Ortom has expressed his appreciation to workers of the state for their commitment, understanding and cooperation particularly in the fight against COVID-19.
Gov. Ortom gave the commendation in a press statement signed by his Chief Press Secretary, Terver Akase and made available to newsmen in Makurdi.
The Governor said the workers have demonstrated uncommon determination and professionalism in all sectors to support the State Government in taking proactive measures to prevent the spread of the disease.
He specially commended workers who are on essential duties such as health and other services for putting in extra hours daily to ensure that Benue does not have additional COVID-19 cases, after the index case.
Ortom opined that no amount of reward can adequately compensate the workers for their sacrifice to the state, and urged them to sustain that level of patriotism.
He restated the resolve of his administration to ensure that the welfare of workers especially salaries and pensions remains its priority.
READ ALSO: May Day: Labour Leaders Urge Workers To Be Patient As Govt Workout N30,000 Wage
The governor however, explained that Benue, like other states of the Federation, had no option than to revise the 2020 Budget from N189 billion to N119 billion, in response to the impending global economic crisis which is estimated to contract the economy of Nigeria by 3.4%, a situation that will have adverse impact on the states.
Gov Ortom stressed that as a result, his administration has embarked on a number of measures to boost agriculture and increase food production including the recent sale of 50 tractors to Benue farmers at 60% subsidy.
He maintained that as part of measures to mitigate the negative effect of the looming recession, the present administration has resolved to take advantage of Benue’s rich agricultural potentials, by not only producing food for consumption but also for commercial purposes.
The Governor pointed out that he had set-up the Agriculture Value Chain, Review and Development Cooperation Committee, with himself as Chairman and encouraged workers of the state and other Benue people to take advantage of the COVID-19 period which has forced many of them to stay at home and engage in massive farming.
On the fight against Coronavirus, Governor Ortom commended the people for the level of compliance with the rules on COVID-19 and solicited for greater cooperation as the partial lockdown, which he described as painful but necessary in the interest of all, continues.
The Governor stated that though no new case of Coronavirus has been found in Benue, it is important that the people remain vigilant and adhere to preventive measures against the pandemic such as the use of face masks, hand sanitizers, frequent hand washing and social distancing.
