President Bola Tinubu has praised Nigerian workers for their unwavering commitment to building the nation. He called them the “backbone of the society whose dedication and resilience drives the engine of the Nigerian economy.”
Speaking through the Minister of Labour and Employment, Muhammad Maigari Dingyadi, at the 2025 Workers’ Day celebration in Abuja, Tinubu expressed gratitude to both the workers and the leadership of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC).
He acknowledged the efforts of the unions in pushing for workers’ rights, engaging in dialogue, and ensuring that the voices of Nigerian workers are heard across all sectors.
“Your efforts and sacrifices have not only uplifted the lives of your members but have also contributed to the betterment of our society.”
Tinubu urged everyone to recommit to building a country where workers feel safe, valued, and actively involved in national development. He emphasized that his administration is open to collaborating with unions, civil society, and the private sector to shape policies that protect and uplift all categories of workers.
Reflecting on the theme of this year’s celebration ‘Reclaiming the Civic Space in the Midst of Economic Hardship’ the president said it captured the current realities Nigerians face, especially in the face of rising inflation, hunger, insecurity, and job losses.
“Economic hardship, which today is a global phenomenon… has not broken our spirit. I am well aware of the peculiarities… ranging from rising costs of living, hunger, insecurity, unemployment, loss of livelihoods and the pressure to provide necessities for your families…”
He said his government is actively working on policies that will boost employment, create decent jobs, reduce poverty, and protect the vulnerable. But beyond that, he stressed the need to protect the civic space the arena where ideas are exchanged and accountability is demanded.
“We must also reclaim the civic space… It is essential for holding leaders accountable, fostering innovation, and ensuring that every Nigerian has a seat at the table.”
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He called for open dialogue, transparency, and inclusivity. Workers, according to him, must have the freedom to organize, speak out, and influence the decisions that shape their lives.
Tinubu also pledged stronger protections for workers and better job security.
He addressed the rising challenge of underemployment and said the government would respond to new realities such as automation, workplace hazards, and mental health.
Nigeria, he added, is on the verge of joining the International Labour Organization’s Global Coalition for Social Justice aligning with six themes: job creation, human dignity, social protection, sustainable enterprise, skills investment, and equity.
He promised to keep fighting corruption, which he said has enriched a few and deepened poverty for the many. For real change to happen, he said, every worker must recommit to justice, fairness, and equality.
“Let us work together to ensure that every worker, regardless of their role or background, has access to opportunities that enable them to thrive.”
“Great Nigerian Workers, I congratulate you all… You are the true heroes of our nation, and your efforts will continue to inspire us to strive for excellence in all that we do.”
“Together, we will continue to strive for a prosperous and equitable Nigeria of our dream.”