The National Human Rights Commission (NHRC) has called on the Federal Government to take immediate and decisive steps to address the worsening economic hardship facing Nigerian workers, warning that rising fuel prices and living costs are deepening vulnerability across the country.
In a statement marking the 2026 International Workers’ Day, the Executive Secretary of the Commission, Tony Ojukwu, stressed that the recent increase in petrol prices has significantly intensified financial pressure on workers, particularly those dependent on daily transportation for their livelihoods.
He noted that soaring transport costs have eroded workers’ incomes, reduced productivity, and undermined the dignity of labour, adding that many Nigerians now struggle to meet basic needs amid the prevailing economic climate.
While acknowledging government efforts to tackle poverty within the context of global inflation, the NHRC maintained that such interventions have yet to sufficiently ease the immediate realities faced by citizens.
Ojukwu identified transportation as a critical challenge, stressing that the absence of an efficient and affordable public transport system has worsened the impact of fuel price hikes. He warned that without urgent intervention, more workers could be pushed into deeper economic hardship.
The Commission also highlighted structural issues affecting workers, including estimated electricity billing, metering challenges, high housing costs, and inadequate healthcare coverage under the National Health Insurance Scheme. It further raised concerns about recurring industrial actions in the health sector linked to poor welfare conditions.
On labour welfare, the NHRC decried wage disparities among workers performing similar roles and called for transparent salary harmonisation. It also described delays in the payment of retirement benefits as unacceptable, noting that such practices deny retirees dignity and financial security.
While acknowledging ongoing investments in the railway sector, the Commission stressed the need to expand affordable and reliable transport systems nationwide to ease the burden on workers.
Ojukwu emphasised that the current economic hardship is not merely a financial issue but a human rights concern that requires urgent, people-centred solutions. He urged all levels of government to prioritise policies that directly improve the welfare, dignity, and working conditions of Nigerians.
He concluded by warning that workers cannot continue to bear the burden of economic reforms without adequate protection, called for swift and decisive action to restore hope and stability.
