By Abubakar Abraham
The Kogi State chapter of the Federation of Informal Workers Organisation of Nigeria (FIWON), has organised a programme to commemorate 16 years of it’s existence as well as inaugurate its new national leadership.
The colourful and well-attended event brought together various affiliate associations of informal workers, including the Crown Sisters, FIWON Women Coalition, Weavers Association, Quiler Sisters, Shoe Cobblers Association, Tailor Group, Furniture Group, Block Moulders, Electronic Union, Welders Union, among others.
Comrade Sule Ahmed Tijani, Chairman of the Trade Union Congress (TUC), Kogi State Council, in his opening remarks, applauded the large turnout of participants.
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He used the forum to commend the relentless efforts of informal workers, noting that without their contributions, society would not function effectively.
The TUC boss urged them to maintain the tempo of hard work and dedication in the discharge of their duties.
He also appreciated the leadership of Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo, describing him as “the people’s civil servant.” . Just as he offered prayers for FIWON to continue attain greater heights
The Chief hostess and Chairperson of Kogi FIWON, Hon. Mariam Yahaya, delivered a goodwill message were she specially recognized the Patron of the informal workers organisation in Kogi State, Oba Fredrick Durojaiye Balogun, for his unwavering support.
Hajia Yahaya stated that the gathering served a dual purpose of celebrating 16 years of excellence and resilience by FIWON as well as the inauguration of the new national leadership of the federation.
A major highlight was the presentation of an Award of Excellence to Dr. Adekunle Aledare, Executive Secretary of the Kogi State Health Insurance Agency (KGSHIA). The award was conferred by the Patron, Oba Fredrick Durojaiye Balogun.
The new National Chairman of FIWON, Comrade Olarewaju Saidi Mobolaji, expressed deep appreciation to Hajia Mariam Usman Yahaya for her unwavering support and sacrifices since the organisation’s creation.
He pledged to take the leadership of the federation to a higher level for the benefit of all members and informal workers nationwide.
Comrade Mobolaji also thanked the Kogi State Health Insurance Agency for the assurance that informal workers and artisans in the state would have access to health insurance benefits, describing it as a golden opportunity for all artisans.
In a reciprocal gesture, the National Chairman, Comrade Olarewaju Saidi Mobolaji, presented an award to Hajia Mariam Usman Yahaya in recognition of her outstanding work and consistent support for the organisation.
Awards were also presented to several deserving artisans for their outstanding work ethics and contributions to the state’s informal economy. The event featured the launching of FIWON’s Almanac . The launch was initiated with generous financial donations from dignitaries on the high table, followed by collective contributions from other attendees, reflecting a strong spirit of unity and support.
In his goodwill message, the Royal Father and Patron, Oba Fredrick Durojaiye Balogun, encouraged everyone to emulate the humble leadership style of Governor Ahmed Usman Ododo.
He promised to remain available and supportive for all programmes of the organisation, reaffirming his commitment as Patron.
The celebration highlighted the vital role of the informal sector in Nigeria’s economy and FIWON’s ongoing commitment to advocating for better working conditions, social protection, and inclusion for self-employed workers.
With the inauguration of the new national leadership, stakeholders expressed optimism that the federation will record even greater achievements in the years ahead, building on its 16-year foundation of service to informal workers across the country.
