The Federal Government has declared Wednesday, May 1, as public holiday to mark this year’s Workers’ Day.
This declaration was contained in a statement issued Tuesday in Abuja by the Permanent Secretary in the Ministry of Interior, Dr Aishetu Gogo Ndayako on behalf of the minister, Dr Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo.
Dr Tunji-Ojo, who made the declaration on behalf of the Federal Government, re-iterated the need for excellence, efficiency and equity in all spheres of labour, re-affirming the President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration’s commitment to fostering a culture of innovation, productivity, and inclusivity in the workplace.
He said; “In alignment with this year’s theme, which focuses on ensuring safety and health at work in a changing climate, I wish to state that the Federal Government remains steadfast in its resolve to prioritise the safety and well-being of all citizens.
“Let me reaffirm Mr. President’s commitment to providing a conducive environment for work, where every worker can thrive and contribute meaningfully to national development”.
While acknowledging the contribution of workers, he called for proactive measures to mitigate adverse effects of climate change through synergy in in the implementation of sustainable practices and policies that promote well-being in the workplace and in building a nation guided by the principles of integrity, diligence and compassion.
The Minister also urged Nigerians to remain committed to the present administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda as he wished workers a happy celebration.
Meanwhile, Former Vice President Atiku Abubakar has said that the much talked-about prospects of wage increments for the Nigerian worker remain a mirage despite prolonged pledges and flowery words by the government.
Atiku, who said this in an International Workers Day message to Nigerian workers on Monday, noted that as they join their counterparts across the world to celebrate International Workers Day, “it is a sobering truth that the plight of the Nigerian worker remains dire.“
He expressed sympathy with Nigerian workers, stating that they have not had it so bad with government policies skewed against their welfare.
According to the 2023 PDP presidential candidate, “After the contraction and contradictions by the government about whether the subsidy regime has gone or it is still being implemented, the country is today facing the angst of frustration by Nigerians who waste precious man-hours in queues at petrol stations across the country.
“The petrol subsidy is purportedly gone; yet its impact lingers – revealing the ineptitude of the current federal government.
“In an unprecedented manner and condescending of both the Nigerian worker and the general public, this current federal government announced a unilateral removal of subsidy on Premium Motor Spirit without consultations with representatives of the Nigerian worker.
“The continued increase in tariffs in different service offerings without addressing the corruption and inefficiencies in the system only amounts to long-suffering Nigerians subsidizing the corruption and inefficiencies in the system,” he said.
