Today is Workers’ Day! Otherwise called May Day, it is set aside to celebrate workers’ contributions to the nation’s economy. But in Nigeria, this year’s event comes amid the ballooning living costs and a shrinking economy.
Since the floating of the naira and the removal of fuel subsidy by the President Bola Tinubu’s administration, the cost of living has more than doubled, leading to a push for a new minimum wage.
Despite promises of reforms, improved welfare, and working conditions for workers, millions of workers continue to face unsafe conditions, mass layoffs, and low wages, among other issues.
While President Tinubu approved N70,000 as the new minimum wage after months of negotiations with labour unions, that move, which was made to cushion the impacts of the government’s reforms and rising living costs, is yet to be implemented by several states.
A civic organisation, BudgIT, said only 17 states have implemented the new minimum wage as of April 2025. Several private organisations are yet to start implementation, citing rising costs of operations.
According to the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS), the country’s inflation rate is at 23.18 % as of March 2025, and food inflation is at 40.01 %, further worsening the living costs among workers and Nigerians alike.
Despite these, the Federal Government says it is committed to bettering the welfare of Nigerian workers.
In his tribute, Senate President Godswill Akpabio hailed the contributions of the Nigerian workers and described them as diligent and resilient.
“Today, we celebrate the hard work and dedication of Nigerian workers. We, in the Senate and of course, the National Assembly, acknowledge your invaluable contributions to our nation’s development,” Akpabio said in a statement through his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Eseme Eyiboh.
“I commend your resilience in the face of challenges and recognise your role in driving our economy forward. Despite obvious challenges, you remain the backbone of our economy. I salute your unwavering commitment to excellence and productivity. Your contributions are vital to our nation’s progress”.
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