The Federal Government has reassured Nigerian workers that their dedication, resilience, and patriotism will be rewarded, as the nation joins the world to mark Workers’ Day 2025.
Speaking in Abuja, Minister of Labour and Employment, Muhammad Dingyadi, stated that the government is committed to rewarding the tenacity and patriotism of workers across the country.
“We commend your can-do spirit and commitment to duty while confronting emerging challenges. The government is working earnestly to ensure your efforts are recognized and rewarded,” Dingyadi said.
The 9am News report notes that the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) are commemorating the event across state capitals and at Eagle Square in Abuja.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio assured workers that the National Assembly remains focused on labour-friendly legislation to strengthen workers’ welfare.
“We acknowledge your contributions to our nation’s development and pledge to protect your rights,” Akpabio affirmed in his May Day message.
At the Pre-May Day Lecture in Abuja, NLC President Joe Ajaero expressed concerns about the shrinking civic space in Nigeria, calling on the government to stop stifling citizens’ freedom of expression.
“The civic space is being compressed; protesters are increasingly restricted, which threatens democracy,” Ajaero warned.
He cited recent instances where protests were thwarted by security forces, particularly in Port Harcourt, highlighting the risks of repressing democratic engagement. Ajaero emphasized that Nigeria’s current political class benefited from the civic struggles of the past and urged leaders not to stifle dissent.
In his lecture, Prof. Christopher Chukwuma of Nnamdi Azikiwe University called for a review of laws like the Cybercrime Act and the Public Order Act, which he said limit civic engagement and free speech.
The Textile Workers’ Union (NUTGTWN) lauded the Federal Government’s approval of the Textile and Garment Development Board, describing it as a significant step toward reviving Nigeria’s ailing textile sector.
“This move demonstrates the government’s commitment to re-industrialisation and job creation,” said Union leaders Peters Godonu and Ali Baba in a statement.
In Anambra State, Speaker of the House of Assembly, Somtochukwu Udeze, praised the workforce for being “solid partners in progress” and encouraged them to maintain the spirit of hard work and innovation.
This year’s Workers’ Day, themed “Reclaiming the Civic Space in the Midst of Economic Hardship,” underscores the intersection of economic reform and democratic freedoms. Dingyadi highlighted the Tinubu administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which aims to achieve sustainable economic and social development, driving national progress and prosperity.
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