Abuja, Nigeria – (African Boulevard News) – Workers in Nigeria have joined fellow counterparts across the globe to mark International Workers’ Day. The day, also known as May Day, is celebrated worldwide to commemorate the contributions of workers to society and advocate for workers’ rights. This year’s celebrations took place on May 1st, with Lagos leading the pack as large crowds gathered at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena.
The theme for this year’s celebration, “Uniting Workers for Social and Economic Advancement”, reflects the need for workers to come together to advocate for their rights and address issues affecting their welfare. The ongoing COVID-19 pandemic has brought to the forefront the importance of workplace safety, job security, and fair wages for workers.
In his May Day message, President Muhammadu Buhari acknowledged the contributions of workers to the growth and development of the country. He noted that his administration remains committed to creating an enabling environment for businesses to thrive and create more employment opportunities for the Nigerian people.
The President of the Nigeria Labour Congress, Ayuba Wabba, called for the implementation of the new minimum wage of Thirty thousand Naira (₦30,000) and social protection measures for workers. He also called on the government to address the issue of insecurity in the country, which has led to the loss of lives and properties and impacted economic activities.
Workers’ unions and civil society organizations took to the streets to demand better working conditions, job security, and the recognition of the contributions of workers to the country’s development. They called on the government to implement policies that would promote workers’ welfare and strengthen the economy.
“International Workers’ Day provides an opportunity for workers to come together and advocate for their rights. We call on the government to implement policies that would prioritize workers’ welfare and create a conducive environment for businesses to thrive,” said Oyinkansola Oladapo, National Coordinator of the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre.
In conclusion, the celebration of International Workers’ Day in Nigeria has highlighted the need for workers to come together to advocate for their rights and address issues affecting their welfare. The government must prioritize workers’ welfare and implement policies that would create an enabling environment for businesses to thrive while upholding workers’ rights. This year’s theme, “Uniting Workers for Social and Economic Advancement,” serves as a reminder of the importance of workers in the growth and development of the country.
