As Nigerians mark the 2025 International Workers’ Day, former Vice President Atiku Abubakar and Labour Party’s 2023 presidential candidate, Peter Obi, have joined President Bola Ahmed Tinubu in paying tribute to the nation’s workers, while drawing attention to the harsh economic realities confronting them and calling for urgent policy reforms.
Atiku, in a deeply reflective message on X, described Nigerian workers as the “indomitable engine propelling our nation towards its long-sought prosperity,” praising their perseverance amid economic adversity.
“In the face of relentless hardship and meager compensation, Nigerian workers have continued to bear the burdens of our economic aspirations with silent heroism,” Atiku stated.
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“Yet, it is disheartening that those entrusted with the reins of policy and governance have failed to reciprocate this steadfast commitment with tangible acts of support and justice.”
He emphasized the vital role of labour in national development, urging those in authority to prioritize workers’ rights and welfare.
“The labour force is the soul of our nation. It is both the face and the force of the people,” he said. “It is thus imperative that governments and employers alike erect unyielding safeguards to protect the dignity, benefits, and entitlements that justly belong to the worker.”
Calling for a change in policy direction, Atiku urged stakeholders to embrace the theme of this year’s Workers’ Day celebration, insisting that workers must be treated as equal partners in building national prosperity.
Peter Obi, in his own message, lauded Nigerian workers for their resilience and essential contributions despite facing “very challenging times.”
“On this International Workers’ Day, we celebrate the tireless efforts of our Nigerian workers, whose unwavering commitment and immense contributions drive our nation’s growth and development,” Obi said.
He painted a stark picture of the country’s labour landscape, citing soaring unemployment and underemployment rates.
“Notwithstanding the recent reconfiguration of our economic indices, the reality is that today, Nigeria has unemployment and under-employment rate of over 35% and youth unemployment and under-employment rate of over 45%—one of the highest globally—fueling all sorts of criminality and social vices,” Obi warned.
He reiterated his long-held stance that Nigeria must shift from a consumption-based economy to a productive one through strategic investments in education, healthcare, job creation, and support for small businesses.
“Aggressive investment in the productive population remains the best and fastest route to bridging this shortage of well-trained workers,” he asserted. “We must recognize the dignity of labour and promote a culture of respect and appreciation for all workers.”
Obi reaffirmed his commitment to building a society that “recognises and rewards productivity, integrity, and honest labour,” calling for unity in the pursuit of a future where every Nigerian worker has the opportunity to thrive.
As messages from political leaders resonate across the nation, Nigerian workers are once again reminded of their pivotal role in shaping the country’s destiny, even as they await concrete action to match the words of solidarity.
