Hon. Effiom Bassey Effiong, the Executive Chair of Akpabuyo Local Government Area, held an important meeting with the executives and members of the Nigerian Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE) in Akpabuyo. The meeting was an opportunity for the Chairman to engage with the Union and discuss key issues impacting the welfare of Local Government employees in the area NEGROIDHAVEN has garnered.
The meeting began with an open forum where various unit heads and departmental directors expressed their concerns. A significant issue raised was the rising cost of transportation, which has heavily impacted employees’ take-home pay, particularly due to the increase in PMS prices. Other concerns included the lack of sufficient personnel, the need for more adhoc staff, and the poor state of facilities and equipment in key departments, such as water supply, electricity, and health services.
According to Ekpo Effiom the Chief Press Secretary (CPS) to the LGA Chair, while acknowledging these concerns, Chair Effiong responded by assuring the workers that their welfare would be a top priority in his administration. He promised to address the transportation challenge by engaging with His Excellency to seek approval for the procurement of vehicles for various units and departments. This, he explained, would serve as a temporary measure until the completion of the CNG plant currently under construction by the state government, which would eventually ease transportation issues. The Chairman also urged the departmental heads to put their specific challenges and recommendations in writing, promising to act on them as soon as possible.
In addition to addressing immediate concerns, Hon. Effiong shared his broader vision for the LGA, emphasizing that the local government’s workforce would play a central role in achieving these goals. He spoke about the need for unity and cooperation between local government officials and employees, stating that a harmonious working relationship would ensure that the workforce remains productive and efficient.
One of the notable points he made during the meeting was his intention to establish a palm oil market at Esuk Ekpo Eyo bridge. This market will allow local palm oil producers to sell directly from the region rather than having traders from outside the area, particularly from the Hausa community, taking the oil to Marian and Bogobiri markets. By creating a dedicated commodity market at the bridge, the Chairman believes this will not only benefit local oil producers but also generate revenue for the LGA.
In his efforts to empower local agriculture further, Hon. Effiong spoke about plans to establish a cassava processing plant that would significantly reduce the cost of garri, a staple food in Akpabuyo. He also expressed his intention to support businesses in the area, particularly those involved in poultry farming and cocoa processing, by providing grants and training for entrepreneurs. The Chairman emphasized that these initiatives would not only create jobs but would also reduce the community’s dependence on external suppliers for basic food products. He remarked that creating job opportunities, especially for women, would play a central role in his administration’s development agenda. He emphasized that women, who are often more vulnerable in society, would be empowered through these initiatives to take control of their economic futures.
“The goal of this administration is not only to create opportunities for politicians but also for civil servants and all residents of Akpabuyo,” Hon. Effiom Bassey Effiong stated. “This is an inclusive government that will benefit everyone, especially those who work hard to serve the people.” He also advised civil servants to maintain a positive attitude and be committed to their work, underscoring that even in the face of limited resources, hard work and dedication would ultimately lead to better opportunities for all.
In his concluding remarks, Comr. Edem, the Chairman of NULGE Akpabuyo, expressed his gratitude to Hon. Effiom Bassey Effiong for his openness and commitment to improving the welfare of the local government employees. He praised the Chairman for being “the sweet prince of Akpabuyo,” confident in his ability to lead the area into a season of prosperity. Comr. Edem thanked the Chairman for taking the time to listen to the concerns of the workers and voiced hope that with the Chairman’s leadership, Akpabuyo would soon experience a new era of prosperity and positive change to the workforce of the LGA.
Present at the meeting were Hon. Christopher Effiom Effiom, the Vice Chairman of Akpabuyo LGA, Comr. Bassey Juliet N. the Secretary of the Council, Mr. Paul Etim, and several local government employees, all led by NULGE Chairman.
Hon. Effiong’s dedication to addressing the concerns of local government workers, combined with his vision for economic growth and self-reliance, reflects his commitment to the progress and well-being of Akpabuyo and its people.
