The Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE), Saki West Local Government chapter, staged a vibrant and well-attended Union Day celebration on Wednesday, marked by the commissioning of a landmark welfare project—the End Well Warehouse—at the Saki West Local Government Secretariat. The event drew dignitaries, labour leaders, government representatives, and union members from across the state, underscoring the growing influence and organisational strength of the union at the grassroots level.
In his address, the Chairman of the union, Comrade Ajuwon Ibraheem Ayinde, expressed deep gratitude to God for the opportunity to serve and for the union’s continued progress. He acknowledged the collective efforts of his executive team, emphasising that the administration’s achievements were the result of shared commitment and unity. Highlighting key milestones, Ajuwon pointed to improvements in members’ welfare, strategic planning initiatives, and infrastructural development, particularly the newly commissioned End Well Warehouse. He described the facility as a forward-thinking investment designed to support the long-term well-being of union members, especially in times of need, and extended appreciation to dignitaries and stakeholders whose presence added prestige to the occasion.
Speaking at the event, the Special Adviser on Labour Matters to Governor Seyi Makinde, Comrade Bayo Titilola Sodo, commended the Saki West chapter for its proactive leadership and innovative initiatives. He noted that the commissioning of the End Well Warehouse was a model intervention that other local government chapters could emulate, as it directly addresses the welfare and dignity of workers. Similarly, the Oyo State NULGE President, Comrade Ayobami Adeogun, lauded Governor Makinde for his administration’s responsiveness to workers’ concerns, particularly in moments of industrial tension. He, however, called for enhanced compensation structures for workers across the state, stressing that improved remuneration remains essential for productivity and morale.
The event also touched upon the recent Supreme Court judgment affirming Local Government Autonomy, described by speakers as a significant milestone for grassroots governance. There were calls for swift implementation, noting that true autonomy would strengthen institutional sustainability and improve working conditions for local government employees. The End Well Warehouse was thereafter commissioned by Comrade Bayo Titilola Sodo, who committed every member into God’s hand for everlasting grace.
Providing the intellectual backbone to the celebration, the Guest Lecturer, Comrade Adedokun Masaudu Kunle, delivered a compelling presentation titled “Strengthening Local Government Administration for Sustainable Community Development: The Role of Unionism.” In his lecture, Comrade Adedokun emphasized that for local governments to achieve their developmental mandates, unions must evolve into strategic partners in governance. He argued that strengthening administration requires a union that is committed not only to worker welfare but also to the principles of accountability, transparency, and professional excellence. He maintained that sustainable community development is only possible when the administrative workforce is motivated and the union acts as a catalyst for effective service delivery at the grassroots.
The celebration featured goodwill messages from various stakeholders, many of whom praised the union’s resilience and consistent prioritisation of members’ welfare. The event concluded with the presentation of Awards of Excellence to distinguished individuals who have contributed significantly to the growth and development of the union.
