Nigerian President Tinubu and Labour Minister Celebrate Workers on May Day
Oru Leonard
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and Labour Minister Muhammad Maigari Dingyadi have extended warm felicitations to Nigerian workers on the occasion of International Workers’ Day 2025. The theme for this year’s celebration is “Reclaiming the Civic Space in the Midst of Economic Hardship.”
Speaking President Tinubu, who was represented by the Minister of Labour and Employment, Muhammad Maigari Dingyadi, noted that economic progress alone is not enough. “We must also reclaim the civic space, the space where ideas are exchanged, voices are heard, and change is born. A vibrant civic space is the cornerstone of democracy, and it is essential for holding leaders accountable, fostering innovation, and ensuring that every Nigerian has a seat at the table.”
Tinubu stressed that, to reclaim the space, we must prioritize transparency, inclusivity, equity and dialogue. “We must protect the rights of workers to organize, advocate, and participate in decision-making processes. And we must ensure that the voices of the marginalized are amplified, not silenced as it is through this space that we can build trust, unity, and a shared vision for a brighter future”, he said.
Addressing issues of underemployment, he noted that it remains a significant concern, He said “These we shall endeavour to pursue vigorously noting that our workplace dynamics are evolving faster than ever before, recognizing the emerging challenges such as technological advancements, environmental hazards, shifts in work patterns, and mental health concerns, which demand our innovative solutions. It is in this regard that Nigeria is at the verge of signing onto the Global Coalition for Social Justice of the International Labour Organization to ensure that Nigeria’s Labour Administration System not only resonates with best practice, but Nigeria’s voice is clearly heard in the international arena of the world of work.
“The guiding principles of the Coalition are centered around six (6) thematic areas bordering on employment creation, social protection, sustainable enterprises, ensuring human dignity, addressing inequalities and skills investments, and are in tandem with our national priorities particularly with the priority areas of our Renewed Hope Agenda.”
Also speaking the Labour Minister of State (Labour), Hon Nkiru Onyejiocha who represented the Minister of Labour and Employment, Dr. Muhammad Maigari Dingyadi, reaffirmed the government’s commitment to protecting workers’ rights and promoting their welfare. The minister acknowledged the economic hardship faced by many Nigerians and emphasized the need for collective action to address these challenges.
The minister assured workers that their voices are heard, concerns are valid, and resilience is deeply respected. He emphasized the government’s commitment to the Renewed Hope Agenda, aimed at creating a better Nigeria.
He disclosed d the Ministry has made significant strides in advancing labour policies, employment opportunities, and worker protections, including the launch of the Labour Employment and Empowerment Programme (LEEP).
Dingyadi further said that the Ministry has partnered with labour unions to address workers’ concerns, improve working conditions, and promote industrial harmony.
The minister urged workers, government, and stakeholders to work together to achieve economic recovery and create a Nigeria where the well-being of citizens is a reality. He expressed gratitude to workers for their understanding and national commitment, noting that labour unions have been stable and peaceful without strikes since his assumption of office.
Workers’ Day Message:
The minister congratulated Nigerian workers on the occasion of Workers’ Day, thanking them for their contributions to the nation’s growth and development. He urged them to remain united, determined, and hopeful as they work towards a brighter future for Nigeria.
