FRIDAY May 2, 2025 |
By thenewsdesk.ng
As Nigerian workers joined their colleagues worldwide to mark the May Day celebration, President Bola Tinubu, yesterday, acknowledged that Nigerians are experiencing economic hardship headlined by rising living costs, hunger, insecurity, unemployment, loss of livelihoods, and the pressure of providing for their families.
The President spoke on a day Organised Labour handed the Federal Government a 20-point demand, urging action on worsening socio-economic conditions in Nigeria, including escalating genocidal killings and bloodshed across the country.
This is even as former Vice President Atiku Abubakar emphasised the vital role of workers in steering the nation towards prosperity, urging the Federal Government to regard the labour force not merely as a means to economic growth but as indispensable partners in the quest for national greatness.
Also, Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Mrs. Didi Walson-Jack, commended Nigerian workers for their resilience, hard work and patriotism that had, over time, sustained the nation.
Speaking during the May Day celebration (Workers’ Day) at Eagle Square, Abuja, the President, represented by the Minister of Labour and Employment, Muhammad Dingyadi, described the challenges as real, critical, and requiring definite solutions.
He said: The theme of this year’s celebration demands our collective attention and serves as a stark reminder of the need to create an environment where every worker feels safe, valued, and empowered to contribute to the growth and prosperity of our nation.
“As your President, I assure you that this administration is committed to creating such an environment for the common good.”
On economic hardship, he said: “I am aware of the peculiarities of the economic hardship Nigerians face, rising living costs, hunger, insecurity, unemployment, and the loss of livelihoods. These challenges are real and demand definitive solutions, which I am poised to address as your President.
“It is in this regard that my administration is not only committed but also intentional in implementing policies promoting job creation, poverty alleviation, economic growth, and support for the vulnerable.
“However, economic progress alone is not enough. We must reclaim the civic space, a place where ideas are exchanged, voices heard, and change fostered. A vibrant civic space is the cornerstone of democracy.
“To reclaim this space, we must prioritize transparency, inclusivity, equity, and dialogue. Workers must have the right to organise, advocate, and participate in decision-making processes. Marginalized voices must be amplified, not silenced.
“The government will continue strengthening labour protections, improving job security, and ensuring fair treatment for all workers in line with international best practices. We must also address under-employment, which remains a significant concern.
“As workplace dynamics evolve rapidly, we must recognise emerging challenges, such as technological advancement, environmental hazards, shifts in work patterns, and mental health issues.
“Nigeria is on the verge of joining the Global Coalition for Social Justice, led by the International Labour Organisation, to ensure our labour system aligns with international best practices and that Nigeria’s voice is heard globally.
“The coalition focuses on six thematic areas, employment creation, social protection, sustainable enterprises, human dignity, addressing inequality, and skill investment, all of which align with our renewed hope agenda.
“This administration is committed to improving the lives of everyday Nigerians, fighting corruption that enriches a few at the expense of many, and ensuring fairness and opportunity for all.
“On this Workers’ Day, I urge you to reaffirm your commitment to fairness, equity, and justice. Let us work together for a Nigeria where insecurity gives way to stability, and civic space becomes a beacon of hope.
“I salute your dedication, perseverance, and patriotism. This day is a celebration of your contributions and a reminder of our limitless potential when united. Together, we will strive for a prosperous and equitable Nigeria.”
Earlier, the Minister of Labour and Employment, Dingyadi, who was represented by Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, said the May Day gathering goes beyond celebration, adding that it is a day of reflection, solidarity, and re-commitment to the dignity of labour.
He said: “Dear Nigerian workers, as your Minister of Labour and Employment, your voices are heard, your concerns are valid, and your resilience is deeply respected. This administration is committed to President Tinubu’s renewed hope agenda for a new Nigeria.
“We recognise the economic hardships facing many citizens. Inflation, unemployment, and inequality are not just statistics, they are lived realities. While we acknowledge these challenges, progress is being made through dialogue and an open, protected civic space.”
