As Nigeria joins the rest of the world to commemorate the 2025 International Labour Day, the National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has reaffirmed its commitment to the protection and promotion of the rights and dignity of Nigerian workers, amid the nation’s ongoing economic challenges.
In a statement signed by the Director, Corporate Affairs and External Linkages, Fatimah Agwai Mohammed, the Commission expressed solidarity with Nigerian workers for their unwavering dedication and resilience, which continue to drive national development despite prevailing hardships.
The Executive Secretary of the Commission, Dr. Tony Ojukwu, acknowledged the difficult economic realities confronting workers, including soaring inflation that has eroded the value of wages and rising transportation costs that negatively impact productivity.
According to him, “Nigerian workers are facing unprecedented challenges. High inflation and transportation costs are making it increasingly difficult for them to meet basic needs. This has further exposed them to poverty, malnutrition, and inadequate access to healthcare.”
While commending the Federal Government for initiatives aimed at alleviating the hardship, Dr. Ojukwu urged for economic reforms that prioritize human dignity, social justice, and the overall well-being of citizens. He stressed that Nigerians deserve policies that guarantee decent work, fair wages, and access to essential services.
The NHRC boss also condemned reports of law enforcement agencies clamping down on peaceful protests organized by workers and citizens, described such actions as violations of the constitutional right to freedom of assembly and expression.
He called on the Federal Government to engage more actively in dialogue with labour unions and workers’ representatives to address their concerns constructively. He also emphasized the need for security agencies to uphold the rights of citizens in the exercise of their civic freedoms.
Dr. Ojukwu further encouraged labour unions to take a more proactive approach in advocating for better working conditions, added that the Commission remained committed to ensuring that the voices of Nigerian workers are heard, respected, and protected.
International Labour Day is observed globally on May 1 to honour the contributions of workers to economic and social progress.
