From Atiku Sarki, Abuja
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has assured Nigerian workers that their welfare remains a top priority of his administration.
He reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment to improving working conditions, promoting fair wages, and ensuring that every Nigerian worker enjoys dignity, safety, and equal opportunity in the workplace.
The President gave the assurance during the 2026 Workers’ Day celebration held at the Eagle Square, Abuja, on Friday.
“To you, our dear workers, I say this clearly: your welfare remains a priority. We are committed to improving working conditions, promoting fair wages, and ensuring that every Nigerian worker enjoys dignity, safety, and equal opportunity in the workplace,” he said.
Tinubu added that the government, through the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment, would continue to enforce labour laws and ensure that Nigeria’s labour administration system complies with international labour standards and global best practices.
Represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, the President commended the choice of this year’s theme, “Insecurity and Poverty: The Bane of Decent Work,” describing it as a call to action.
“Government cannot do it alone. I therefore call on organised labour to remain our partners in progress. Let us explore all avenues and resources to deepen dialogue and reduce conflicts. Strike should be the last resort, not the first,” he stated.
He also urged employers to uphold decent work standards, including fair wages, safe workplaces, and respect for collective bargaining agreements, while commending security agencies for their role in safeguarding lives and economic activities.
“Every market you secure, every school you protect, every farm you defend is an act of job creation, and for all these, we are grateful,” he added.
Tinubu reaffirmed his administration’s determination to tackle insecurity and poverty, noting that efforts are ongoing to ensure decent work becomes a reality for all Nigerians.
The President also appreciated the leadership of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) for their efforts in advocating workers’ rights and organising the May Day event.
Earlier, the Minister of Labour and Employment, Dr Muhammad Maigari Dingyadi, described May Day as both a celebration of workers’ achievements and a reminder of the challenges facing the workforce.
He noted that Nigerian workers remain the backbone of the nation’s economy and assured that the government is committed to protecting their welfare.
“The recently implemented minimum wage is not the end of the journey but a step towards ensuring that every worker earns a living wage that reflects dignity and fairness,” Dingyadi said.
He added that the government is working with labour unions and state governments to ensure full compliance, while also investing in job creation programmes in agriculture, technology, and infrastructure.
On their part, the leadership of the NLC and TUC—Comrade Joe Ajaero and Comrade Festus Osifo—called on workers to unite in demanding a living wage that reflects current economic realities.
They urged that all workers should be paid their full salaries pending the finalisation of the new national minimum wage, to cushion the effects of the prevailing economic hardship.
“Now, more than ever, Nigerian workers must stand together. Our unity is our greatest weapon, and our solidarity our strongest shield,” they said.
The labour leaders stressed that workers remain central to national development and called for renewed commitment to building a fairer and more just society.
They also noted that this year’s theme reflects the harsh realities confronting workers, stressing that insecurity and poverty continue to undermine decent work and national progress.
