FIC Report (Bayelsa State) – Workers in Bayelsa State have called on the state government to domesticate and implement the newly approved upward review of salaries, estacodes, duty tour allowances, and other benefits for civil servants as approved by the Federal Government.
The appeal was made on Friday during the 2026 Workers’ Day celebration held at the Peace Park, opposite Government House in Yenagoa, the state capital. The workers, under the umbrella of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC), also pressed for the timely approval, conduct, and payment of financial benefits associated with promotions.
In a joint address delivered by the State Chairman of the NLC, Comrade Barnabas Simon, alongside his TUC counterpart, Comrade Edwin M. Fefegha, the unions urged the government to implement annual salary increments across all categories of workers.
They further highlighted the urgent need for a new housing scheme, noting that rising economic pressures and escalating rental costs have made it increasingly difficult for workers to afford decent accommodation.
“Most workers cannot afford decent housing, let alone build or own homes, largely due to the rising cost of building materials,” the labour leaders stated.
The unions also demanded the payment of outstanding 25 and 35 percent salary arrears, the recruitment of non-academic staff in the post-primary education sector, and the provision of uniform allowances for nurses and other professional health workers. Additional demands included the extension of Grade Level 10 as the entry point for graduate nurses and the implementation of the new ₦80,000 minimum wage for Bayelsa State Fire Service personnel.
Responding, Governor Douye Diri reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to the welfare of civil servants, emphasizing the importance of recognizing the dignity of labour.
Speaking on the theme of the 2026 Workers’ Day celebration, “Insecurity and Poverty: Bane of Decent Work,” the governor commended workers across sectors for their contributions to the state’s development.
“Every year, we celebrate the dignity of labour and the extraordinary partnership that continues to drive prosperity in Bayelsa State,” Diri said. “From civil servants and teachers to healthcare workers, security personnel, artisans, and professionals in the private sector, your dedication remains the bedrock of our progress.”
The governor maintained that Bayelsa remains peaceful and secure, attributing ongoing development strides to the synergy between the government and the workforce.
Highlighting achievements of his administration, Diri pointed to improvements in infrastructure, education, healthcare, and job creation, describing them as outcomes of prudent resource management and strong collaboration with workers.
“For us, prompt payment of salaries is a fundamental responsibility of government,” he added.
As part of efforts to improve workers’ welfare, Governor Diri also directed that 108 housing units be allocated to civil servants in the state.
Ayayeibo Duncan Zuobom. Assistant Chief Information Officer.
Fic yenagoa Bayelsa
1st Of May 2026
