In a strategic move to bolster worker welfare in Enugu State, the Honourable Commissioner for Labour and Productivity, Hon. Chika Ugwuoke, and the General Manager/CEO of Enugu State Marketing Company Ltd, Engr. Mike Ogbuekwe, held a consultative session with labour union leaders to discuss the implementation of a Food and Welfare Scheme targeted at Enugu State workers.
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Hon. Ugwuoke reiterated the state government’s unwavering commitment to improving the welfare of its workforce, citing the recent increase in minimum wage as a testament to this commitment. He emphasized that the new food support initiative would further enhance workers’ wellbeing by providing them access to foodstuffs at subsidized rates.
During the session, Engr. Ogbuekwe presented details of the scheme, which will be administered by the Enugu State Marketing Company. He explained that the initiative allows workers to obtain essential food items without immediate payment, with the option to defer payment until after salary disbursement.
This flexible payment model, he noted, will ease financial pressure on workers, improve household food security, and support better financial planning.
Engr. Ogbuekwe also highlighted the role of the Enugu State Farm Estate Programme in the scheme, stating that increased local food production would supply the initiative, ensuring affordability, sustainability, and food sufficiency. He affirmed that the scheme has received unanimous approval from the Board of the Enugu State Marketing Company, recognizing its significant social and economic impact.
The proposal received overwhelming support from labour union leaders present. The Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Enugu State Chapter, praised the initiative as timely and commendable, expressing confidence in its long-term benefits for workers.
Other union leaders also voiced strong support, describing the initiative as revolutionary. Endorsements came from the Chairman of the Trade Union Congress (TUC), Chairman of the National Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE), representatives of the Health Workers Union, National Union of Teachers (NUT), organized private sector unions, and others.
To facilitate access, the Enugu State Marketing Company is expanding its distribution network, with a new outlet set to open at Ogui Road by Subway Station, and upcoming branches planned for Ogbete, Garki, and Nsukka Bus Terminals.
Additionally, workers can now order food items online with the convenience of home delivery services via the official platform:
🌐 www.enugumarket.ng