In a rare moment of unity between organized labour and state governments, Anambra’s workers have spoken and their verdict is historic. Soludo, known for his bold and transformative reforms, has earned the title of “Workers’ Beacon of Hope.”
What has Soludo done to deserve such recognition from Nigeria’s often-restive labour movement? The answer lies not in his grand speeches but in consistent actions and intentional reforms that have significantly improved workers’ welfare in Anambra.
While other states struggle with unpaid salaries and pensions, often taking loans to pay partial salaries and facing stalled negotiations, Soludo’s administration has cleared inherited arrears and implemented 10% increased salaries for all levels of state workers and pensioners. He has also implemented one of the most worker-friendly wage structures in the Southeast. Labour leaders emphasize his willingness to listen, his empathy, dedication, and unwavering support for workers, traits that are unfortunately lacking in many government-labour interactions.
“Prompt and thorough implementation of the 2024 minimum wage; he graciously approved N82,000, the highest in the Southeast, exceeding the N70,000 national benchmark. This marks the first time a minimum wage has been fully implemented in Anambra State,” remarked leaders from the Organized Labour Anambra chapter, highlighting Soludo’s visionary leadership and significant efforts to transform Anambra into a center of economic and infrastructure excellence.
While pension arrears have become a persistent issue in many states, in Anambra, the four-year arrears have been systematically cleared under Soludo’s government. Retirees who once lost hope and staged protests now receive their dues promptly, along with a nontaxable cash award of N10,000 to supplement their pensions, thanks to a streamlined payment system that Labour unions describe as “the most transparent in recent memory.”
Perhaps the most groundbreaking shift is Soludo’s “Productivity First” approach. Rather than creating an adversarial dynamic, his government has trained workers in ICT skills through the state ICT Agency and provided laptops to enhance productivity.
“He turned our agitations into opportunities,” said a civil servant who transitioned from clerical work to digital skills training under the state’s Solution Innovation District Code 2.
In era where kidnappings and insecurity have disrupted livelihoods, Soludo’s security measures have earned praise from workers, traders, and residents alike. “We can work without fear again,” declared a representative from the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT).
This award is not just about policies; it represents trust. At a time when Labour unions often view governments as adversaries, Soludo has built bridges through humility and tangible results. Simply put, he has restored workers’ faith in governance.
For a governor who pledged to build a livable and prosperous homeland, this recognition from the very people who keep the state running is the ultimate proof that “Anambra is Rising” and that “Solution continues.”
