By Dupson Collins
When Comrade Akinrinlola Fredrick took the mantle of leadership from Comrade Bola Taiwo two years ago, it is hard to believe that he will surpass the achievements of his predecessors going by the successes recorded by these past presidents while in office. The likes of Comrade Chief Bunmi Eniayewu and Comrade Bola Taiwo have written their names in gold while leading the union at different times.
Comrade Akinrinlola having served in different capacities and being the deputy to one of the outstanding and formidable president of the Union, Bola Taiwo, he can’t but achieve and marking two years in office, Akinrinlola giant strides in workers welfare, reforms and new innovation has placed NULGE above other unions in Ondo State.
He has distinguished himself as a visionary and pragmatic leader in his capacity as President of the Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees (NULGE), Ondo State Chapter. His tenure has been marked by unwavering commitment to the welfare of workers, transparent union administration, and purposeful engagement with government at all levels.
Presenting a comprehensive account of his administration’s achievements upon completing two years in office, his report emphasizes significant strides in workers’ welfare, expresses appreciation to both State and Local Government leadership, and details progress in capacity development and institutional reforms.
Akinrinlola reaffirmed his initial commitment: “My primary objective upon taking office was to ensure that every local government worker in Ondo State is empowered, recognized, and treated equitably. Today, I am proud to report substantial progress toward that goal”.
A landmark achievement highlighted was the approval of Grade Level 17 for Heads of Local Government Administration (HOLGA), aligning their career progression with the official scheme of service. “This reform is about fairness, structured advancement, and according our administrative leaders the professional status they merit”.
On political inclusion, the NULGE leadership has actively advocated for local government workers to be considered for political appointments and elective positions. “Our members deserve a seat at the table where decisions affecting their livelihoods and communities are made,” Comrade Akinrinlola stated.
He extended specific gratitude, saying, “We are particularly thankful to the Governor of Ondo State, Dr. Lucky Orimisan Aiyedatiwa, for graciously considering our members for such positions and appointments.”
Regarding welfare and entitlements, he confirmed the prompt implementation of the new minimum wage and the clearance of all outstanding salary arrears, leave bonuses, COVID-19 allowances, and hazard pay for health workers. “No public servant should endure financial hardship while in service,” he asserted.
The administration has also focused on enhancing operational capacity. This includes procuring official vehicles for principal officers across all 18 Local Governments, the Local Government Service Commission, and the two other boards. Furthermore, a Toyota Hiace bus was acquired for the state NULGE chapter, and 18-seater buses were provided to each local government branch. “These measures ensure our union is both functional and visible at every level”.
Staff development remains a cornerstone of the administration’s agenda. “We have institutionalized annual promotions and organized regular workshops and training programmes. Our focus is on continuous professional growth for our members as they serve Ondo State,” Comrade Akinrinlola noted.
In a significant move for retiree welfare, over six billion naira has been released to settle outstanding gratuities for retired workers. Additionally, active staff have received Christmas bonuses. “This is beyond mere statistics; it is about restoring dignity, boosting morale, and safeguarding the well-being of our entire workforce; both active and retired”.
Concluding his address, Comrade Akinrinlola reiterated his administration’s mission and gratitude: “We thank the Governor for his partnership and support. Our commitment remains to empower local government employees, sustain these impactful reforms, and position NULGE Ondo State as a benchmark for excellence in public service unionism.”
With two more years left to complete his first term in office, more goodies for NULGE members across the state. His track records will definitely bring agitation for second term in office because like Oliver Twist, Ondo State Local Government workers will definitely ask for more transformational leadership under Comrade Fredrick Akinrinlola.
