As Nigerian workers joined the rest of the world to commemorate the 2023 workers’ day, the Federal Government has called on the incoming administration to respect workers’ rights by adhering to the international Labour law standards, for the promotion of decent work and social dialogue for a consensus building and maintaining a sound National Industrial Relations System.
Speaking at Eagle Square Abuja, President Muhammadu Buhari, who was represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Boss Mustapha, said that Nigeria as a viable member State of the ILO and a connoisseur of workers’ rights had ratified all the core conventions of the ILO guarding the promoting rights at work.
Also Speaking, the Minister of Labour and Employment Senator Chris Ngige, who numerated the achievements of the outgoing administration, in terms of workers’ issues, admitted that a lot still needs to be done for the Nigerian workers.
In a joint address, the President of Nigeria Labour Congress Comrade Joe Ajaero and President of Trade Union Congress, Comrade FESTUS Osifo, that workers’ welfare is central to the achievement of socioeconomic justice which inturn is the the key to national and global sustainability.
According to them, poor wages, increased decent work deficit, abuse of workplace rights and privileges, unpaid salaries and violation of rules of engagement are some of the issues that must be addressed by the government.
May 1st every year is set aside all over the world to commemorate workers’ day.
The day was set aside by the United Nations to commemorate the struggle of workers in achieving the eight-hour work per day.
The theme for this year’s workers’ day is “Equity, fairness and justice underpin the survival of societies and create resilience for Nations amid upheavals and turbulence.“
