As Nigeria joins the global community to commemorate the 2025 International Workers’ Day, key public figures and agencies have paid glowing tribute to the resilience, sacrifices, and nation-building contributions of Nigerian workers.
Messages of appreciation were accompanied by calls for improved welfare, respect for rights, and inclusive economic reforms.
Deputy Speaker applauds workers, backs economic reforms
The Deputy Speaker of the House of Representatives, Mr Benjamin Kalu, commended Nigerian workers for their unwavering dedication and pivotal role in the country’s development.
In a statement released on 1 May, Mr Kalu acknowledged the resilience of the Nigerian workforce and noted efforts by President Bola Tinubu’s administration to improve their welfare — particularly highlighting the National Assembly’s swift approval of the new minimum wage.
He called for continued patience and cooperation from Nigerians, stressing that ongoing economic reforms, though challenging, are aimed at delivering long-term national benefits.
“The path to a stronger economy demands sacrifice and unity,” he said, urging workers to remain in solidarity with the government. He assured them that “better days lie ahead” and wished them a successful celebration.
NACA urges end to HIV workplace discrimination
In a separate message, the National Agency for the Control of AIDS (NACA) called on employers, unions, and government bodies to promote zero discrimination against workers living with HIV.
NACA Director-General, Dr Temitope Ilori, praised the contributions of workers to national growth and urged for increased workplace awareness and support for employees affected by HIV.
“Workplaces are more than sites of labour — they are communities,” she stated, adding that HIV must never be a barrier to employment, dignity, or opportunity.
Ilori emphasised that nearly two million Nigerians living with HIV deserve safe and inclusive work environments and reminded stakeholders that “health rights are human rights.”
NHRC decries harsh conditions, calls for rights-based reforms
The Executive Secretary of the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC), Dr Tony Ojukwu, also released a statement marking Workers’ Day, urging the Federal Government to adopt economic policies that uphold the dignity and rights of Nigerian workers.
Dr Ojukwu expressed concern over the severe economic challenges faced by workers, including inflation and soaring transport costs, which have eroded wages and diminished quality of life.
“Economic reforms must prioritise human dignity, social justice, and access to essential services,” he said, while commending the government’s initial measures to alleviate hardship.
He criticised the suppression of peaceful protests by some law enforcement agencies, describing it as a violation of constitutional rights. He called for greater commitment to constructive dialogue with labour unions and for unions to continue their proactive advocacy for better conditions.
“International Labour Day serves as a powerful reminder of the irreplaceable contributions of Nigerian workers,” Ojukwu concluded, reaffirming NHRC’s dedication to protecting their rights and amplifying their voices.
Aviation Unions Raise Concerns Over Industry Challenges on Workers’ Day
Aviation unions in Nigeria raised serious concerns over several issues affecting the growth and effectiveness of the aviation sector.
A key point of contention was the Federal Government’s policy of deducting 50% of the Internally Generated Revenue (IGR) from aviation agencies, which the unions argued hampers safety and security operations, warning that such measures could jeopardise the entire industry.
They also criticised the ongoing airport concession programme, the lack of governing boards for aviation agencies, and continued delays in approving conditions of service for workers. These challenges, they said, undermine proper administration and stall necessary reforms in the sector.
Issues within the private aviation sector were also brought to light, with the unions condemning poor wages, undervaluation of labour, and increasing underemployment. They expressed concern that these negative trends are becoming widespread and risk eroding standards across the industry. The welfare and fair treatment of workers, they insisted, must be central to any reform agenda.
Comrade Ben Nnabue, President of the National Union of Air Transport Employees (NUATE), specifically highlighted the denial of union rights by several domestic airlines. He cited Turkish Airlines for allegedly victimising staff due to their affiliation with NUATE.
He warned of serious consequences if such practices persist and indicated that the union is prepared to take decisive action.
RN
