…Transport Union’s New EXCO Inaugurated Amidst Pledges of Collaboration, Unity
The newly elected chairman of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), Cross River State Chapter, Comrade Anthony Idoko Odey, on Thursday, assured the state of a harmonious collaboration with the government during his inauguration on Thursday, 30th Nov. 2023. Expressing gratitude for the trust placed in him, Odey extended an olive branch to any aggrieved member, emphasizing the need for unity within the union.
Comrade Odey, who emerged as the state chairman, affirmed his commitment to serving the union and fostering a spirit of togetherness. He also extended an olive branch to any aggrieved member of the union, saying “I want to call on whoever who is aggrieved for me emerging as state chairman to come join me and push the union forward, we can only succeed when we work together”, he declared, urging those with grievances to join hands in moving the union forward.
The Acting President of NURTW, Alhaji Aliyu Isa, applauded the peaceful electoral processes that led to the emergence of the new executives. Represented by Chief Joseph Aluanya, former Vice President, Isa called on the elected leaders to run a selfless and inclusive government, collaborating with union members for the betterment of the organization.
He said “those who will emerge from this election must serve in such a way that demonstrate exemplary leadership, capacity and sacrifice, both the leadership and followership must find a collaborative effort to turn the union’s fortune for the better”.
Barr. Clarkson Otu, Special Adviser to the governor on Labour Matters, acknowledged the crucial role the transport union plays in the state and the nation’s economy. Otu advocated for industrial peace and harmony among trade unions, emphasizing the need for collaboration to address pending issues.
In attendance were dignitaries such as Hon. Simon Lalong, Minister of Labour and Employment (represented); Hon. Ekpeyong Cobham, State Commissioner for Transportation and Marine Services; and Comrade Gregory Ulayi, State NLC Chairman, among others.
The Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment charged the transport union to remain vigilant and report any form of child labor activities discovered during their duties.
The newly elected executives of NURTW in Cross River State are as follows:
Anthony Idoko Odey – Chairman
Edet Edem Umo – Deputy Chairman
Emmanuel Eyo Etim – Vice Chairman
Sunday Arikpo – Vice Chairman
Victor B. Essien – Assistant Secretary
Apostle Ekpenyong Ayi – Organising Secretary
Mary Udofia – Treasurer
Obu Noah – Deputy Treasurer
Edim Oyongha – Financial Secretary
Gabriel Adah – Auditor
Chief Tete Williams – Auditor
Maurice Eyo – Trustee
Marshal Akabom Enene – Trustee.
Dignitaries who were present at the conference included; Hon. Simon Lalong, Minister of Labour and Employment (represented); Hon. Ekpenyong Cobham, State Commissioner for Transportation and Marine Services, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Donatus Ejemot Esu; Comrade Gregory Ulayi, State NLC Chairman; Comrade Monday Ogbodum, State TUC Chairman; Comrade Pastor John Ushie, former State NLC Chairman and former National Chairman of NUPRO WW; Corps Commander I. A. Ibrahim, State FRSC Sector Commander; Director of DSS; Comrade Dan Obo Jnr., State NYCN Chairman; Labour Veterans amongst others.
The newly inaugurated NURTW executives have set the stage for collaborative efforts with the government and a commitment to a united, efficient transport union in Cross River state.
