Labour Day, also known as International Workers Day or Workers’ Day, carries a historical significance that is rooted in the struggles and triumphs of the labour movement.

Originating from an ancient European spring festival, its modern manifestations stem from the organised efforts of socialist and communist groups advocating for the rights of workers. In Nigeria, Labour Day serves as a moment to commemorate the invaluable contributions of the workforce while reflecting on the persisting challenges in the country’s labour sector.

May Day, observed globally on May 1, finds its roots in the proclamation by the International Socialist Congress in 1890, marking it as the Workers Day of International Unity and Solidarity.

This date holds particular significance in the United States, where the demand for an eight-hour workday led to a pivotal moment in labour history — the Haymarket Square protests of 1886.

Following this, the call for legal recognition of the eight-hour workday gained momentum, culminating in its implementation in the USA and subsequently influencing global labour movements. This movement eventually moved across to all parts of the world and Nigeria too.

First endorsed as a public holiday by the People Redemption Party of Kano State in 1980, it was subsequently elevated to national status in 1981 by the government of Alhaji Shehu Usman Aliyu Shagari. Since then, Nigerians have commemorated this day yearly, honouring the legacy of workers and labourers while amplifying calls for equitable treatment and respect within the workforce.

This event serves as a poignant reminder of the invaluable contributions made by workers and labourers worldwide, acknowledging their dedication and commitment to various industries.

Traditionally, Nigerians mark this occasion by gathering with loved ones, acknowledging the pivotal role played by workers and labourers in sustaining the fabric of society. However, it is not just primarily an opportunity for a well-deserved break, others embrace it as a time to advocate for improved working conditions across sectors as the plight of Nigerian workers is a tale of resilience amid adversity. The Day actually serves as a symbolic tribute to the workforce and also underscores the systemic challenge facing Nigerian workers.

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With the spectre of hunger looming over the nation, no doubt, family values have shrunk, with many making sacrifices that are essential in areas such as healthcare, electricity and transportation to maintain a semblance of food security.

Workers across Nigeria are employing various coping strategies to combat food insecurity, a plight affecting millions of citizens. Nightly rituals of switching off electricity to curb energy expenses have become commonplace, while unnecessary travel is often postponed or altogether avoided.

In the face of economic strain, workers are resorting to supplementary income streams to make ends meet. Many are turning to alternative employment avenues such as driving for ride-sharing services like Uber, engaging in small-scale trading, or offering a range of services including hairstyling, fashion design, event planning, and digital marketing. Some are even scaling back their primary employment commitments to devote more time to income-generating activities.

Amid efforts to navigate food inflation and rising living costs, a lot of workers are becoming ensnared by predatory lending practices. Dubbed ‘loan sharks’, these unscrupulous lenders prey on the desperation of workers, by charging exorbitant interest rates that can soar as high as 60 per cent. The consequences are dire, as borrowers often spiral into cycles of debt that prove impossible to escape.

Need For Sector Reform

While Workers Day embodies a spirit of celebration and unity, it also sheds light on the harsh realities endured by many Nigerian workers.

As the plight of Nigerian workers continues to grow by the day, the call for governmental intervention is even louder. Rather than the grandstanding with salary increase, many have called on government officials to prioritise initiatives aimed at making food more affordable and accessible to all.

Drawing inspiration from successful models like India’s approach to addressing food shortages and price hikes, Nigerian policymakers have been asked to put in place measures that alleviate the burden on struggling households and foster sustainable economic resilience.

Issues such as low wages, long working hours, and poor working conditions persist, contributing to a challenging environment for the labour force.

Additionally, the lack of access to social protection schemes leaves workers vulnerable to economic instability and hardship, especially for civil servants, who play a crucial role in executing or carrying out of governmental policies that serve the interests of the populace.

Under the banners of organisations like the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC), workers demand their rights with unwavering resolve, resorting to peaceful demonstrations and strikes when negotiations falter.

However, the mismanagement and diversion of funds intended for workers perpetuate their suffering, highlighting the urgent need for accountability and transparency within the labour sector.

As Nigeria reflects on the significance of Workers’ Day, it must heed the call for reform. The celebration should not merely serve as a day of leisure, but must as a catalyst for change — a catalyst to address the systemic issues plaguing the workforce.

By championing fair wages, improving working conditions, and fostering an environment of accountability, Nigeria can honour the contributions of its workers and pave the way for a more equitable and prosperous future.

Parting Shots And Way Forward

The celebration of Workers Day in Nigeria should prompt a reevaluation of the country’s labour policies and practices.

Despite efforts by the government to address some of these challenges, including increase in the minimum wage and regulations for workplace safety, much remains to be done. Ensuring fair wages, decent working conditions, and comprehensive social protection for all workers should be central objectives in the ongoing quest for labour rights and dignity.

Nigerian workers have shown resilience and determination in navigating these hard times.
Now, as we look to the future, it’s essential to explore strategies for moving forward and rebuilding a brighter tomorrow.

First and foremost, fostering a culture of collaboration and solidarity is paramount.

The challenges facing Nigeria cannot be tackled by any single entity alone. It requires the collective effort of the government, businesses, labour unions, and civil society.

By fostering partnerships and working together towards common goals, we can leverage our collective strengths to overcome obstacles and drive positive change.

Education and upskilling are also critical components of moving forward in hard times.

The rapid pace of technological advancement and the shifting landscape of the global economy demand that workers continuously acquire new skills to remain competitive.

Investing in education and vocational training programmes will empower Nigerian workers to adapt to emerging industries and seize new opportunities.

Furthermore, promoting entrepreneurship and innovation can spur economic growth and create new avenues for employment.

Nigeria is brimming with talented individuals with entrepreneurial spirit, and by creating an enabling environment for startups and small businesses to thrive, we can unlock the nation’s untapped potential. Access to financing, mentorship programs, and incubation centers can provide aspiring entrepreneurs with the resources they need to turn their ideas into reality.

Moreover, addressing systemic issues such as corruption, inequality, and injustice is essential for fostering a more inclusive and equitable society. Corruption erodes trust in institutions and undermines economic development, while inequality perpetuates social divisions and stifles progress. By promoting transparency, accountability, and the rule of law, we can create a level playing field where every Nigerian has an equal opportunity to succeed.

On this Workers’ Day, let us reaffirm our commitment to building a better future for all Nigerians.

By harnessing the power of collaboration, investing in education and entrepreneurship, prioritising health and well-being, and addressing systemic issues, we can overcome the challenges of today and lay the foundation for a brighter tomorrow.

As we celebrate the contributions of Nigerian workers, let us also recognise their resilience, strength, and unwavering determination in the face of adversity. By embracing these principles and working together towards common goals, we can chart a path forward that leads to prosperity, stability, and inclusive growth for all Nigerians.

Together, we can move forward with hope and optimism, knowing that a better tomorrow is within our reach.