President Bola Ahmed Tinubu and First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu on Wednesday, May 1, 2025, extended warm greetings and heartfelt commendations to Nigerian workers as the nation joined the rest of the world in marking International Workers’ Day, also known as May Day. The President and the First Lady used the occasion to celebrate the contributions of workers across all sectors to Nigeria’s growth, resilience, and progress, emphasizing their central role in the country’s socio-economic development.

In a series of statements issued from the Presidency and the Office of the First Lady, the nation’s leadership praised Nigerian workers for their dedication, perseverance, and patriotism despite ongoing challenges ranging from inflation to infrastructure deficits and job insecurity.

Tinubu: Workers Are the Engine of Our National Development

President Tinubu, in his address to mark the occasion, described Nigerian workers as the “lifeblood of our economy” and the “engine that keeps the wheels of development turning.” He acknowledged the challenges facing the average Nigerian worker, including poor wages, rising living costs, and workplace hazards, but expressed optimism that ongoing reforms and renewed government commitments would gradually improve their living and working conditions.

“Today, I join millions of Nigerians to salute the unwavering spirit of our workers. From civil servants and healthcare professionals to educators, engineers, farmers, artisans, and transport workers—your hands build this country every single day,” Tinubu stated.

The President reaffirmed his administration’s resolve to implement key labor and economic reforms designed to boost productivity, raise the minimum wage, and create better working conditions. According to him, the government remains in active dialogue with organized labor to ensure that policies are worker-centered and aligned with the realities on the ground.

He also reiterated that the forthcoming review of the national minimum wage would be comprehensive, inclusive, and sensitive to the economic realities facing both workers and employers.

“We are committed to ensuring that no Nigerian worker is left behind in our Renewed Hope Agenda. A new national minimum wage is not just a promise, but a necessity. We are working closely with labor unions and state governors to arrive at a fair and sustainable figure that reflects today’s cost of living,” he assured.

First Lady Oluremi Tinubu: Women and Youth Workers Deserve Special Recognition

In her own statement to commemorate the day, First Lady Senator Oluremi Tinubu paid special tribute to female workers and young people contributing to the nation’s workforce. She acknowledged the often underappreciated efforts of women in various sectors—especially those balancing professional work with family responsibilities—as well as the innovative spirit of Nigerian youth who are making significant strides in technology, agriculture, and the creative industries.

“Our women and young workers are key drivers of transformation in this country. On this day, we honor their resilience, their courage, and their ability to thrive in the face of adversity,” she said.

She also used the opportunity to call for safer, more equitable workplaces where women are protected from harassment, given equal opportunities for growth, and supported through inclusive policies such as maternity leave and affordable childcare.

Oluremi Tinubu emphasized that the nation’s future rests on a workforce that is not only skilled but also empowered and motivated to give their best. “When we invest in our workers, especially our women and youth, we invest in the future of Nigeria,” she added.

Labor Unions Reflect on Progress, Push for Reforms

While the government extended its appreciation to the workforce, the major labor unions in the country also marked the day with rallies and peaceful demonstrations across different states. The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) highlighted key demands such as a living wage, pension reform, improved social protection, and better labor laws.

In Abuja, thousands of workers marched to the Eagle Square in a symbolic show of unity and resilience. The event featured speeches from union leaders who urged the government to match its words with concrete action.

NLC President, Comrade Joe Ajaero, praised the recognition from the presidency but stressed that real change can only come through policy implementation and accountability.

“We welcome the President’s message, but beyond promises, workers want to see policies that put food on the table and restore dignity to labor,” Ajaero said.

The TUC also echoed similar sentiments, calling for urgent attention to inflation, healthcare infrastructure, education funding, and youth unemployment. The unions reaffirmed their readiness to engage constructively with the government to ensure that the welfare of workers is at the center of national planning.

Looking Forward

As Nigeria grapples with both economic challenges and the quest for industrial revitalization, the 2025 Workers’ Day has served as a platform for reflection and renewed commitment. For the Tinubu administration, it is an opportunity to bridge the gap between policy and practice, by enacting reforms that uplift the labor force and drive inclusive development.

For workers, it is a reminder of their strength, their importance, and their right to be seen, heard, and rewarded. As the country moves forward, the role of Nigerian workers in building a stable, prosperous, and equitable nation remains more crucial than ever.