The Head of Service of Anambra State, Barr. Theodora Okwy Igwegbe, has reaffirmed the satisfaction of the state’s workforce with Governor Charles Chukwuma Soludo’s transformation agenda. She made the remarks during the 2025 Workers' Day celebration held in Awka, commending the governor's policies aimed at improving workers' welfare and advancing public service efficiency.
Speaking at the event, Barr. Igwegbe said that the year's theme, "Reclaiming Civic Space Amidst Economic Hardship," aptly reflects the governor's strides over the past three years in addressing economic challenges and strengthening governance.
She cited key initiatives such as the implementation of the new Minimum Wage Act and robust economic policies introduced to cushion the impact of current financial pressures on public servants. In addition, she praised the administration’s progress in the health sector, notably the provision of free antenatal and delivery services for women and the increasing national recognition of the Anambra State Health Insurance Scheme (ASHIS).
While applauding Governor Soludo’s efforts in repositioning the civil service, the Head of Service acknowledged areas that still require attention. She urged civil servants to continue upholding the values of punctuality, diligence, and professionalism in service delivery, assuring them that their concerns are being heard.
In a symbolic gesture of appreciation, the workforce presented Governor Soludo with the “Workers' Beacon of Hope” award, underscoring their support and confidence in his leadership.
Earlier in the program, representatives of the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) in Anambra emphasized the importance of protecting civic freedoms—especially the rights to expression, assembly, and association—during periods of economic difficulty. The union leaders echoed calls for expanding civic space to ensure civil servants' voices are heard and respected.
They also used the occasion to raise pressing concerns, including the establishment of a joint committee to safeguard the Contributory Pension Scheme and the need for the domestication of the new retirement age policy for teachers, which stipulates either 40 years of service or 65 years of age.
The 2025 Workers’ Day celebration in Anambra served as a powerful reminder of the essential role civil servants play in state development and the importance of collaborative governance in building a more resilient and equitable public sector.