Governor Aiyedatiwa has urged workers in Ondo State to translate ongoing government reforms into higher productivity and measurable economic benefits.

Speaking at the 2026 Workers’ Day celebration in Akure, he said workers remain “central to national development” and vital to the success of his administration’s policies.

He added that Workers’ Day reflects “historic struggles… for improved wages, job security and social justice,” stressing that labour must remain a partner in governance.

“Workers are co-architects of development, not mere stakeholders,” the governor said.

Why it matters

The governor’s remarks come amid rising concerns about insecurity, unemployment and cost-of-living pressures across Nigeria.

The 2026 May Day theme  “Insecurity, Poverty: Bane of Decent Work” highlights how economic hardship and safety concerns are affecting workers’ productivity and livelihoods.

Aiyedatiwa acknowledged these challenges, linking them to poverty and criminality, and outlined measures aimed at addressing both.

Security, jobs and economic reforms

The governor said the state had expanded security operations, including strengthening the Amotekun Corps with 500 new recruits and additional vehicles.

He added that inter-agency collaboration had been intensified to improve intelligence gathering and crime response.

On economic growth, he highlighted investments in agriculture, digital training, infrastructure and industrialisation as key drivers of job creation.

He also pointed to youth and women empowerment programmes, soft loans and technical education reforms as tools for reducing poverty.

Workers’ welfare and recruitment drive

Aiyedatiwa said his administration had prioritised workers’ welfare through prompt salary payments and cash-backed promotions, with no arrears outstanding.

He disclosed that about 4,000 workers had been recruited across sectors including education, health and agriculture.

He added that gratuities owed to retirees from 2018 and 2019 had been cleared, with a commitment to settle remaining arrears.

“Salaries and allowances are being paid promptly and consistently,” he said.

SUBEB recruitment controversy addressed

The governor also responded to complaints from applicants affected by irregularities in the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB) recruitment exercise.

He assured candidates issued fake employment letters that their appointments would be regularised.

“The affected applicants will be duly absorbed… following established procedures,” he said.

The SUBEB Permanent Secretary, Dr Abike Bayo-Ilawole, directed affected candidates to report to the board’s office for proper documentation.

Labour leaders react

Labour unions, including the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC) in Ondo State, welcomed the government’s efforts.

However, they urged further action to address insecurity and economic challenges affecting workers.

Meanwhile, the Head of Service, Bayo Philip, praised the administration’s reforms, citing improved welfare, promotions and recruitment.

He described the changes as “unprecedented within a short period” and called on workers to reciprocate through dedication and efficiency.

Federal perspective on workers’ challenges

Representing the Minister of Labour, Olanike Mogboruko said Workers’ Day remains a global platform to recognise workers’ contributions.

She warned that insecurity and poverty continue to undermine decent work, noting that:

“Insecurity disrupts economic activity while poverty erodes dignity and opportunity.”

She called for stronger collaboration between government, employers and labour unions.

Boards dissolved across Ondo

In a separate development, the Ondo State Government announced the dissolution of several boards and commissions following the expiration of their tenure.

Those affected include the State Universal Basic Education Board (SUBEB), Local Government Service Commission, and religious welfare boards.

Education Secretaries across the state’s 18 local government areas were also affected.

Officials have been directed to hand over to the most senior administrative officers.

What’s next

The government says it will:

Implement minimum wage adjustments in state institutions

Regularise affected SUBEB applicants

Continue recruitment and welfare reforms

Expand infrastructure and healthcare projects

The effectiveness of these promises will likely shape public confidence in the administration ahead of future political and economic developments.

The Nigeria Customs Service (NCS) Seme Area Command has announced plans to tackle trade barriers affecting the free movement of goods and services along the Lagos–Abidjan corridor.

The initiative centres on deeper collaboration with traditional rulers, security agencies, and regional authorities operating along the border.

Customs Area Controller, Comptroller Kaila, disclosed this during a series of familiarisation visits across Badagry and neighbouring border communities.

He said the move aligns with the Federal Government’s economic policies aimed at boosting trade facilitation while strengthening border security.

Why it matters

The Lagos–Abidjan corridor is a critical trade route connecting Nigeria to several West African economies, including Benin, Togo, and Ghana.

Barriers such as smuggling, poor coordination among agencies, and local resistance have historically slowed trade and reduced revenue generation.

Experts say improved collaboration at border communities could:

Increase government revenue

Reduce smuggling activities

Boost regional trade under ECOWAS frameworks

Improve livelihoods in border towns

Customs seeks support from traditional rulers

During a visit to the Palace of the Oba Akran of Badagry Kingdom, the Customs Area Controller emphasised the role of local leadership in achieving the agency’s mandate.

“The purpose of my visit is to introduce myself as the Area Controller of Seme Command and to equally seek your royal blessing and support to achieve the core mandate of the service,” he said.

“Our priority remains to generate revenue, facilitate trade, and suppress smuggling… without cooperation from traditional rulers, we cannot effectively perform our functions.”

The visit also included a condolence message to the royal family following the death of HRM De Wheno Aholu Menu Toyi I.

Responding, King Regent Chief Abel Ogunbiyi pledged continued collaboration.

“Badagry is a very peaceful town, and we will keep collaborating with you in safeguarding our borders and promoting legitimate trade.”

Community leaders pledge cooperation

At Ibereko Awori Kingdom, Oba Israel Okoya assured Customs of community support.

“I welcome you to Badagry… I will always talk to my people whenever the need arises. Our youth do not engage in illegalities, and I will assist you in achieving the government mandate.”

Similarly, the Alapa of Apa Kingdom, HRM Oba Oyekan Ajose Ilufemiloye, commended the Customs leadership.

“I promise you that I will always assist you in my area… our border has been peaceful, and with your presence, things will change for the better.”

Security agencies strengthen collaboration

Comptroller Kaila also visited the 653 Nigerian Air Force Base in Ahanve-Badagry to reinforce inter-agency cooperation.

Commanding Officer, Group Captain Hungruy Medugu, highlighted the importance of joint operations.

“Our collaboration has been key to various successes… your presence strengthens existing bonds, and we will not take it for granted.”

Security analysts say such cooperation is crucial in addressing cross-border crimes, including smuggling and trafficking.

Regional cooperation beyond Nigeria

In a move to deepen cross-border coordination, the Customs Area Controller visited the Republic of Benin Police.

The engagement signals efforts to build stronger bilateral ties aimed at easing trade and reducing friction along shared borders.

Industry and public perspective

Trade and logistics stakeholders have long called for smoother border processes.

Economists also note that improved border efficiency could support Nigeria’s non-oil export ambitions.

What’s next 

The Seme Command says it will continue engaging stakeholders while strengthening enforcement against smuggling.

Observers say the success of the initiative will depend on sustained cooperation, transparency, and measurable improvements in border operations.

Guaranty Trust Holding Company (GTCO) has reported a profit before tax of ₦302.9 billion for the first quarter of 2026, driven by growth in interest income, fees, and customer deposits.

The unaudited results, released on 30 April, show continued resilience in Nigeria’s banking sector despite broader economic challenges.

Strong Earnings Driven by Core Banking

The group recorded a 17.5% increase in interest income and a 7.1% rise in fee income year-on-year.

Its loan book grew modestly by 1.3% to ₦3.17 trillion, while deposits rose by 6.3% to ₦13.69 trillion, signalling sustained customer confidence.

Total assets stood at ₦18.7 trillion, with shareholders’ funds at ₦3.6 trillion.

Improving Asset Quality and Risk Metrics

GTCO reported improved asset quality, with non-performing loans (Stage 3 under IFRS 9) declining to 4.4% from 5.0% at the end of 2025.

The cost of risk also dropped sharply to 0.2%, compared to 2.2% in December.

The bank maintained a strong capital adequacy ratio of 39.5%, well above regulatory requirements.

“A Defining Shift in Earnings” – CEO

Commenting on the results, Group Chief Executive Officer Segun Agbaje said:

“Our Q1 2026 results mark a defining shift in the quality and composition of our earnings, with strong underlying performance across our core banking operations and increasing contribution from our ecosystem businesses.”

He added:

“Our focus remains on driving sustainable earnings by deepening customer relationships, rapidly scaling our ecosystem businesses, and deploying technology to deliver simpler, faster, and more intuitive financial solutions.”

Why It Matters

The results highlight the continued strength of Nigeria’s top-tier banks, even amid inflationary pressures and currency volatility.

Strong deposit growth suggests customer trust remains high, while improved risk metrics indicate better loan performance.

For investors, GTCO’s return ratios, including a 34.4% return on equity reinforce its position as one of the most profitable financial institutions in the country.

Industry Perspective

Analysts say the results reflect a broader trend in Nigeria’s banking sector, where lenders are diversifying beyond traditional banking into payments, pensions, and wealth management.

GTCO’s expansion into “ecosystem businesses” signals a shift towards technology-driven financial services.

This aligns with increasing digital adoption across Africa’s financial landscape.

What’s Next

GTCO says it plans to scale its presence across West and East Africa while expanding its digital offerings.

The group is also targeting growth in payments and wealth management, areas seen as key revenue drivers in the coming years.

Closing

GTCO’s latest results underline the evolving nature of banking in Nigeria, where traditional lending is increasingly complemented by digital and ecosystem-driven growth.

As competition intensifies, the group’s strategy could shape how banks across Africa adapt to a rapidly changing financial landscape.