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Tag: Workers Day

  • MAY DAY: Workers are backbone of govt- Oborevwori

    MAY DAY: Workers are backbone of govt- Oborevwori

    Delta State Governor, Hon. Sheriff Oborovwori has described workers as the backbone of government’s wheel of progress.

    He stated this on Thursday in Asaba during the 2025 Workers’ Day (May Day) celebration.

    The governor who was represented by his Deputy, Sir Monday Onyeme, noted that, Workers’ Day is not just a celebration, asserting that, “It is a moment to reflect on shared journey and renewal of commitment to building a Delta State and Nigeria where every worker is valued, empowered and rewarded.”

    Governor Oborevwori noted that, the theme for this year’s celebration, “Reclaiming the Civic Space in the Midst of Economic Hardship,” is apt, as it serves as a powerful call to action and rallying point for all.

    He said , “even in the face of adversity, we must reclaim our rights, amplify our voices and are engage fully in the civic processes that govern our lives.”

    Governor Oborevwori urged workers to remain steadfast in their commitment to excellence and continue to work hand in hand, with unity and purpose, to achieve the Delta of their dreams.

    “I join all Deltans and indeed Nigerians with immense pride and gratitude to celebrate our hardworking men and women on this Workers’ Day 2025.

    “You, the workers of Delta State, civil servants, teachers, healthcare professionals, artisans, farmers and private sector employees, are the backbone of our progress; I salute you all.

    “My administration will never take your sacrifices for granted and we will keep pushing for policies that uplift you and your families.

    “Workers’ Day is not just a celebration; it is a moment to reflect on our shared journey and renewal of our commitment to building a Delta State and Nigeria where every worker is valued, empowered and rewarded.

    “Let me acknowledge the challenges we face; gobal economic pressures, rising costs of living and unemployment affect us all but I assure you that my administration is working tirelessly to cushion these impacts.

    “Since assuming office, my administration has placed workers at the heart of our M.O.R.E. Agenda and we have taken steps to uplift the welfare of workers and ensure you thrive in an environment of dignity and opportunity.

    “We have ensured prompt payment of salaries and pension, cleared pension backlogs and introduced training programmes to boost your skills.

    “We have upgraded workplaces, revitalized healthcare centres and renovated schools to support your work.

    “Our entrepreneurship initiatives have empowered artisans and small business owners, creating jobs and boosting incomes.

    “Despite economic challenges, we are investing in infrastructure, roads, bridges and markets to reduce transportation costs and boost trade.

    “We are supporting agriculture to enhance food security to stabilize prices.

    “These efforts are designed to make life better for every worker and their families.

    “We have also introduced a whistle-blower policy with a dedicated phone line; this is a bold step to promote transparency and accountability in governance.

    “This policy protects workers who expose wrongdoing, ensuring that your voices are heard and that public resources are used to serve the common good.

    “This is governance that works for you, rooted in fairness and accountability.

    “On this day of reflection and celebration, let us also remember those who have sacrificed for the dignity of labour. Let their struggles inspire us to strive for fairness, justice and equity in our workplaces.

    “As we move forward, I urge you to remain steadfast in your commitment to excellence.

    “Let us continue to work hand in hand, with unity and purpose, to achieve the Delta of our dreams as my administration will never take your sacrifices for granted and we will keep pushing for policies that uplift you and your families.

    “Our doors remain open for dialogue, as we believe that collaboration with workers’ unions is the path to lasting progress.

    “Let us march on, stronger together, towards a brighter and more prosperous future,” the governor stated

    Earlier in a joint address, the Delta State Chairman Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, Comrade Goodluck Ofobruku, and Comrade Martins Bolum, Chairman, Trade Union Congress of Nigeria, TUC, called on workers to come together and unite as community to reclaim their civic space inspite of the economic hardship faced by workers.

    The chairmen noted that, these challenges have tested the resilience and resolve of workers.

    The event featured colourful match pass parade by different trade unions.

  • Workers Day: PDP salutes Ogun workers unwavering commitment to socioeconomic growth

    Workers Day: PDP salutes Ogun workers unwavering commitment to socioeconomic growth

    The Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) in Ogun has applauded the state’s workforce for its resilience, sacrifices, and unwavering commitment to the overall growth and socio-economic prosperity of the state.

    Mr Kayode Adebayo, the party’s Publicity Secretary in Ogun, gave the commendation in a statement in Abeokuta on Thursday.

    Adebayo explained that in spite of recent economic realities, workers  had continuously demonstrated remarkable dedication, offering selfless service to the state with strong passion and a high sense of professionalism and patriotism.

    The PDP publicity secretary said that the party was not unaware of the  disparity between workers income and their sacrifices.

    ”We appreciate your perseverance and exceptional work ethic.

    “Your dedication exemplifies a culture of excellence, and we recognise the significant contributions you make to our state.

    ”As we celebrate workers’ day 2025, PDP, as a major stakeholder in the Ogun State developmental project and a responsible political organisation, is committed to your welfare, job security, and overall wellbeing.

    ”Our party’s enviable relationship with the Ogun workforce between 2003 and 2011 remains unmatched in the annals of Labour/Government history, not only in Ogun State but an undeniable reference point in Nigeria as a whole.

    ”This was a symbiotic partnership that reawakened the sleeping giant and returned Ogun to the era of her fullness of glory and posterity,” he said.

    Adebayo further said that the party appreciated civil servants efforts and sweats that showcased the love for the state.

    ”The PDP honors and salutes every effort you make, every sweat that showcases your love for our state, and every commitment that reflects your passion for our dear state.

    ”We reiterate our principled solidarity, at all times, with the cause of advancing the common good and legitimate demands and aspirations of all Ogun workforce,” he said.(

  • Breaking: FG declares May 1 public holiday for Workers Day

    Breaking: FG declares May 1 public holiday for Workers Day

    The Federal Government has announced that Wednesday, May 1, will be a public holiday to celebrate Workers’ Day this year.

    This was declared by the Minister of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, on behalf of the government.

    The announcement was made in a statement issued in Abuja on Tuesday night by Magdalene Ajani, the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry.

    Ajani hailed workers for their diligence and sacrifice, reiterating the need for peace to drive industrialisation and economic growth.

    He further noted that workers’ efforts are mainly responsible for the greatness of the country and the respect Nigeria commands in the comity of nations.

    While wishing workers a happy celebration, Tunji-Ojo, therefore, urged workers to imbibe the culture of innovation and productivity and also to keep hope alive as the present administration of President Bola Tinubu is committed to the Renewed Hope Agenda he promised.

    He added, “There is dignity in labour; the dedication and commitment to the work we do is vital to nation-building.

    We encourage workers to raise the bar of their trade to drive and upgrade the bar of governance and make all the people of Nigeria derive maximum benefit from the nation’s wealth.

    “This Administration is fully committed to the security of life and property of every citizen and foreigners in the country.”

  • Workers’ Day: NLC, TUC appeal to FG to address nation’s challenges

    Workers’ Day: NLC, TUC appeal to FG to address nation’s challenges

    The  Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) and  Trade Union Congress (TUC) have appealed to the Federal Government to address challenges facing Nigerians before things get out of hand.

    Presidents of  the  unions, Mr Joe Ajaero and Mr Fetus Osifo made the appeal on Wednesday in a joint speech to mark the  2024 Workers’ Day in Abuja.

    They listed such challenges as ranging from harsh economy, insecurity, power/energy sectors and unemployment, among others.

    They said: “Our nation continues to suffer variously as forces of centrifuge wield greater stranglehold upon it, as the citizenry grows more disillusioned.

    “This has persistently reduced civic ownership of the policies, actions and institutions of governance deepening and exacerbating the disconnect between the state and the people.

    “The various agitations around the country for a restructured nation that will be more compact thus nimble to work more effectively and efficiently in delivering greater benefits to the citizenry are manifestations of this,” they said

    The labour leaders added that the increasing spates of violent outbursts around the nation were all expressions of citizens’ frustration with the structures of governance in the country.

    They noted that the violent expression were manifested in clamour for Yoruba nation, IPOB and the Arewa elders’ open disenchantment with governance

    “Our nation continues to manifest in its choice of government actions and decisions deeper pleadings to the forces of nepotism and primordiality.

    “These forces rather than abate in our governance journey especially in a government that was elected in a heavily divisive election cycle, seemed to have strengthened its grip,” they said.

    The duo appealed to President Tinubu to use the opportunity of his power to work towards bringing all the divides in the nation together.

    “We, after the last presidential election, had thought that the present government at the centre would have used the opportunity which the outcome of the last presidential election presented to work towards bringing all the divides in the nation together.

    “We had truly expected a governance framework that would have reflected the nature of the presidential election results as announced by INEC which shows the ruling securing 36 per cent of the total votes cast.

    “Such outcomes would have demanded a more humble and inclusive approach to governance if we are to heal the nation and make progress but that unfortunately has not been the case,” they said.

    The labour leader, nevertheless, expressed hope that if the present government and its institutions implement policies that safeguard the dignity, unity and value of the workforce and the people, it would bolster democracy and fortify the supporting institutions.

    “Conversely, failing to do so weakens democracy, leading to periods of crisis, as we continue to witness now in our nation as was further demonstrated by the recent outbursts in Ibadan few weeks ago and in other parts of the country.

    “We believe that it is now time for us as a nation to come together to create a genuine dialogue of survival.

    “Instead of pretending that all is well with our nation when we are in dire straits, it is crucial for all cleavages in our nation to be brought together to sincerely discuss the national question.

    “We must restructure to reposition our nation to work for the majority,” they said.

    The theme of the  2024 Workers’ Day is, ‘People First’.

  • May Day: Anambra workers express sadness over Soludo’s absence at rally ground

    May Day: Anambra workers express sadness over Soludo’s absence at rally ground

    The absence of Anambra state governor, Prof Chukwuma Soludo at the worker’s day rally has angered the entirety of workers in the state.

    It was gathered that Soludo was represented at the Alex Ekwueme Square by Dr Onyekachukwu Ibezim, the state Deputy Governor.

    According to the  workers, Soludo stayed away from the function because he was afraid of addressing the long list of needs presented by the NLC and TUC. They insisted he was not a worker friendly governor.

    Continuing, the workers said the governor’s absence was deliberate and initially refused to file out for the usual parade which has become synonymous with the rally.

    They repeatedly shouted “No” to appeals for them to file out for the parade, insisting that Soludo has never attended workers’ function since he became governor. They eventually grudgingly undertook the parade.

    The Deputy Governor who later addressed the protesting workers after several efforts to calm them, assured that their grievances would soon be addressed.

    He said: “Governor Soludo as a worker-friendly governor is aware of your plights. You will definitely hear from him soon.”

    Earlier, workers in the state had presented a long list of demands. They called on Soludo to suspend the deduction of the contributory pension from their salaries to ensure industrial harmony in the state.

    The state Chairman of Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Comrade Humphrey Nwafor, said the workers are worried over what he called improper introduction and implementation of the contributory pension scheme.

    He said, “From the beginning of the scheme, monies deducted were rarely remitted to the Pension Fund Administrators (PFA).

    “Before the present administration came on board, the state were deducting only the workers part of the contribution even without remitting same to the various PFA’s and refused to pay the government part.

    “The organized labour is dissatisfied with the continued deduction even after the reoccurring May Day prayers by organized labour requesting for the suspension
    of the scheme.

    “We call on the governor, who we believe is not only worker friendly but hate injustice with passion, as a matter of urgency, to suspend the deduction of the contributory pension from the workers’ salary so as to ensure industrial harmony in the state.”

  • President Bola Tinubu’s speech on May Day

    President Bola Tinubu’s speech on May Day

    President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR

    Being a speech by His Excellency, Bola Ahmed Tinubu, GCFR, President and Commander-in-Chief of the Armed Forces of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, on the occasion of the 2024 May Day celebration, held on Wednesday, May 1, 2024, at the Eagle Square, Abuja.

    Protocols…

    My dear compatriots and fellow workers in the service of our great country,

    Today, I join you to share in the essence of this day and to express my deepest gratitude and admiration for the invaluable contributions each and every one of you makes to keep our nation afloat in its times of greatest need.

    Today, I stand before you to tell a fundamental truth: you, the workers of our great nation, are its very backbone. But I’m not here merely to echo familiar praises of the labour force. Rather, I want to assure you that we appreciate and celebrate your hard work, sacrifices, and contributions to the prosperity and stability of our great nation every day. I am equally thrilled that this event, the first since we took office, is organised by the Nigerian Labour Congress and the Trade Union Congress under the leadership of Comrades Joseph Ajaero and Festus Osifo.

    Great Nigerian workers, your role as an indispensable component of the nation’s engine cannot be overstated by any government if the quest for a just and progressive society is to be realised. Therefore, I extend my most heartfelt congratulations to you on this very important celebration.

    I do not take for granted the understanding, patience, commitment, and support you have shown throughout the implementation of this government’s policies and programmes aimed at positively transforming our great nation. Your contributions have played a significant role in our efforts to rescue the economy since we came on board.

    Fellow Comrades, your choice of the theme “People First” for this year’s May Day celebration is both instructive and commendable. The thoughtful selection by the leadership of both the NLC and TUC resonates with my government’s agenda and demonstrates that the working class holds a central position in the affairs of this nation. It also reflects the commitment of Organised Labour to collaborate with the government for the benefit of all citizens. I appreciate your efforts to prioritise the people in governance.

    I recognise that the theme “People First” aligns with both the “Human-cantered Agenda for the Future of Work” and the Centenary Declaration of the International Labour Organization (ILO), which the government is committed to implementing. This commitment ensures alignment of Nigeria’s Labour Administration System with international best practices. While the three pillars of the agenda seek to drive growth, equity, and sustainability for present and future generations, they require us to prioritise investment in people’s capabilities, enhance investment in work institutions, and promote decent and sustainable work.

    We took office at the time many nations, including ours, were experiencing daunting socio-political and developmental challenges. Yet, we are resolute in confronting these obstacles head-on. The scourge of criminality, from banditry to kidnapping and the farmer-herder crises, alongside terrorism, continues to afflict our nation despite the tireless efforts of our armed forces. We are aware of the toll this takes on our economy. I assure you: we are fully committed to tackling these security challenges.

    You would recall that on January 30th, 2024, the Federal Government convened a 37-member Tripartite Committee on Minimum Wage. The committee’s mandate was to provide counsel and suggest a national minimum wage that aligns with our current economic conditions. Since then, the committee, in collaboration with labour leaders, has been diligently working towards proposing a new National Minimum Wage. Unfortunately, despite concerted efforts, the committee was unable to reach a consensus at its last meeting. This shall be resolved soon and I assure you that your days of worrying are over.

    Indeed, this government is open to the committee’s suggestion of not just a minimum wage but a living wage.

    Great Nigerian Workers, we cannot achieve a just and equitable society that caters to the needs of every member, including the strong and the weak, without fostering peace and unity. Our shared vision for national growth and development can only be realised in an atmosphere of industrial harmony and peaceful coexistence in every segment of our country. The dividends we have promised the nation, and which you work tirelessly to ensure, can only be achieved when we all unite for progress.

    On this momentous day, I urge you and all our fellow citizens to place your trust in this administration. The seeds of greatness planted in our nation are beginning to bear fruit, and they promise a future filled with hope and bound by prosperity.

    Let me assure you, with the utmost sincerity, that every initiative undertaken by this administration is geared towards transforming Nigeria into a nation that can truly provide for its people.

    So, I call upon each and every one of you, as I have consistently done, to join hands in shaping the destiny of our nation towards greatness. Our allegiance and patriotism are the bedrock upon which our beloved country thrives. The success of our government’s policies and programmes hinges on the willingness of the workers, as the backbone of our workforce, to embrace them wholeheartedly. I appeal to you to continue using the power of the labour movement for the greater good of our nation, fostering harmony and cooperation.

    Once more, I extend my heartfelt congratulations on this successful Workers’ Day celebration, and I wish you all joyous festivities.

    May God continue to bless our country.

  • May Day: Reps Minority caucus seeks for living wage, better condition for Nigerian workers

    May Day: Reps Minority caucus seeks for living wage, better condition for Nigerian workers

    The House of Representatives Minority caucus has called for a living wage for Nigerian workers and better condition of service as labour marks this year’s May Day celebrations.

    In a message signed by the Minority Leader, Rep Kingsley Chinda tagged: ‘SOLIDARITY MESSAGE TO NIGERIAN WORKERS ON THE OCCASION OF WORKERS’ DAY, MAY 1ST, 2024′, the caucus again reminded the Federal Government on the need to pay a living wage that can take Nigerian workers home.

    Read full message below:
    Fellow compatriots,

    “Today, as we celebrate the resilience and contributions of Nigerian workers, the backbone of our nation’s development, we stand in unwavering solidarity with Nigerian workers across all sectors and facets, while acknowledging their tireless efforts and sacrifices.

    “Doubtless, today is a poignant reminder of the invaluable contributions of workers to our nation’s growth and prosperity.

    “As we mark this Workers’ Day, and honour the contributions of workers, let us recognise the challenges faced by workers, including poor working conditions, inadequate remuneration, and erosion of workers’ rights, reaffirm our collective responsibility to advocate for a fairer, more inclusive society where every worker is treated with dignity and respect.

    “As the Leader of the Minority Caucus of the House of Representatives, we reiterate the commitments of my colleagues in the Minority Parties of the House of Representatives to addressing these issues through legislative actions and advocacy.

    “The Minority Leadership resolves not only to reflect on the pressing issues facing the Nigerian workforce but to act on and prioritise the welfare and rights of workers, just as we have commenced the drive for living wage for Nigerian worker against the minimum wage offered by the government.

    “We urge the government to prioritise policies that promote decent work, social protection, and fair labour standards. We demand an end to the exploitation of workers and the promotion of equal opportunities for all.

    “The resilience, dedication, and sacrifices of Nigerian workers cannot be overstated.

    “To the workers, we say thank you for your dedication and hard work. Your labour builds our nation, and we honour your contributions.

    “Again, we call on the government to urgently consider a living wage for the Nigerian worker and commence implementation with same speed that she implements increase in taxes or tariffs on the populace.

    Long live the Nigerian workers!

    Aluta Continua; Victoria Acerta!

  • Grace Ike celebrates Nigerian workers, hails journalists’ sacrifices

    Grace Ike celebrates Nigerian workers, hails journalists’ sacrifices

    Comrade Grace Ike, Chairperson of the House of Representatives’ Press Corps, has extended warm felicitations to Nigerian workers as they commemorate May 1st Day today.

    Comrade Ike who doubles as the  Vice Chairman of the NUJ Correspondents chapel FCT In a statement issued in Abuja, Ike expressed profound admiration for the resilience and dedication demonstrated by Nigerian workers, even amidst challenging times.

    She acknowledged their commitment to their duties and responsibilities, emphasizing their vital role in driving the nation forward.

    Despite facing numerous obstacles, Ike noted that the Nigerian worker has remained steadfast and diligent in their pursuit of a better tomorrow and therefore expressed optimism that their sacrifices will not go unnoticed.

    She said their perseverance will ultimately lead to tangible improvements in their lives and the nation as a whole.

    In particular, Ike extended her solidarity to the workers in their quest for a new living minimum wage, recognizing the importance of fair compensation for their hard work and dedication.

    According to Ike, who is also the Vice Chairman of the Correspondents Chapel of the NUJ in the Federal Capital Territory, the Nigerian worker deserves nothing less than the best, given their significant contributions to the development of the country.

    Continuing, Comrade Ike paid special tribute to members of the Nigeria Union of Journalists (NUJ) for their invaluable contributions to society. She applauded their patriotism and commitment to their profession, even in the face of adversity.

    Ike acknowledged the crucial role played by journalists in information dissemination, the promotion of core values, and the defense of national interests.

    Ike reaffirmed her support for Nigerian workers and journalists alike, pledging to continue advocating for their rights and welfare, while calling upon all stakeholders to join hands in ensuring that the contributions of workers and journalists are duly recognized and appreciated, both today and in the days to come.

  • JUST IN: FG declares public holiday to mark Workers’ Day

    JUST IN: FG declares public holiday to mark Workers’ Day

    The Federal Government has declared Wednesday, May 1, public holiday in commemoration of the 2024 Workers’ Day Celebration.

    This is contained in a statement by the Permanent Secretary, Ministry of Interior, Dr Aishetu Ndayako, issued on Tuesday in Abuja.

    She stated that the Minister of Interior, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, made the declaration on behalf of the Federal Government.

    Tunji-Ojo reiterated the need for excellence, efficiency and equity in all spheres of labour, re-affirming President Bola Tinubu’s administration’s commitment to foster a culture of innovation, productivity and inclusivity in the workplace.

    Tunji-Ojo said, “In alignment with this year’s theme, which focuses on ensuring safety and health at work in a changing climate, I wish to state that the Federal Government remained steadfast in its resolve to prioritise the safety and well-being of all citizens.

    “Let me reaffirm the President’s commitment to provide a conducive environment for work, where every worker can thrive and contribute meaningfully to national development.”

    While acknowledging the contribution of workers, he called for proactive measures to mitigate adverse effects of climate change through synergy in the implementation of sustainable practices.

    He also acknowledged policies that promote well-being in the workplace and in building a nation guided by the principles of integrity, diligence and compassion.

    The Minister also urged Nigerians to remain committed to the present administration’s Renewed “Hope Agenda” and wished workers a happy celebration.

  • Workers Day: Chris Ngige reveals salary is only N942,000 monthly

    Workers Day: Chris Ngige reveals salary is only N942,000 monthly

    Minister of Labour and Employment, Dr Chris Ngige has disclosed that as Minister of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, his monthly salary after deduction of tax is only N942,000.

    Ngige made the disclosure on Monday when he appeared on Channels TV’s Politics Today.

    Speaking on the administration’s commitment to workers’ welfare in the last eight years, he said even political officeholders were not left out in the excruciating economic situation in the country.

    When asked about paying workers’ salaries from June and beyond, the minister said, ” I’m not the Central Bank governor, neither am I the finance minister. These two manage the Nigerian economy, the fiscal and micro. Even if it means printing money, I cannot print, and I don’t know how it’s done.

    ”My salary is N942,000 a month. That’s my salary with my Personal Assistant, that is the gross total after taxation. Every minister you see, that’s what it is. Special Adviser too, is around that amount at the federal level.”