The Labour Party has extended warm congratulations to Nigerian workers on the occasion of International Workers’ Day, while calling on authorities at all levels to intensify efforts toward improving workers’ welfare in the face of mounting economic challenges.
In a statement released on Friday in Abuja, the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Ken Asogwa, described Workers’ Day as a moment of deep reflection and renewed commitment to the ideals of dignity, fairness, and social justice for the Nigerian workforce.
According to Asogwa, the significance of May Day goes beyond ceremonial celebrations, noting that it embodies the long-standing struggles and aspirations of workers who continue to serve as the backbone of the nation’s economy. He emphasized that the Labour Party, since its registration in 2003, has remained ideologically and historically connected to the plight of workers, advocating policies that prioritize their well-being and economic security.
“Workers’ Day is not merely symbolic for us,” the statement read. “It is a reminder of the sacrifices made by millions of Nigerians who contribute daily to nation-building, often under difficult and uncertain conditions. The Labour Party identifies strongly with these realities and remains committed to championing policies that uplift workers and protect their rights.”
While acknowledging recent steps taken by the current administration, particularly the approval of a new minimum wage, Asogwa stressed that such measures, though commendable, fall short of addressing the broader economic pressures confronting ordinary Nigerians. He pointed to rising inflation, increasing cost of living, and declining purchasing power as critical issues that continue to erode the benefits of wage adjustments.
He argued that without complementary policies to stabilize prices and strengthen social safety nets, wage increases alone would offer only temporary relief. The party, therefore, urged the government to adopt a more holistic approach that includes effective price control mechanisms, investment in public services, and targeted interventions to cushion vulnerable households.
The statement further called for improved working conditions across both public and private sectors, emphasizing the need for timely payment of salaries, pensions, and gratuities. It also highlighted the importance of enforcing labour laws, protecting workers from exploitation, and promoting job security in an increasingly uncertain economic climate.
Asogwa noted that Nigerian workers have consistently demonstrated resilience and dedication despite economic headwinds, adding that their contributions deserve more than verbal recognition. “Our workers have shown remarkable endurance,” he said. “What they need now is not just praise, but concrete policies that translate into better living standards.”
The party also used the occasion to encourage workers to remain united and engaged in the democratic process, stressing that collective action and civic participation are essential tools for driving meaningful change. It reaffirmed its commitment to advocating for reforms that would create a more equitable and inclusive economy.
As celebrations of International Workers’ Day unfold across the country, the Labour Party’s message underscores a broader national conversation about the future of work, economic justice, and the role of government in safeguarding the welfare of its citizens. For millions of Nigerian workers, the day serves as both a celebration of their contributions and a renewed call for policies that truly reflect their needs and aspirations.
