May Day is set aside to celebrate workers’ contributions to the nation’s economy. This year’s celebration, themed “Reclaiming the Civic Space in the Midst of Economic Hardship,” will be observed across the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.
But 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.
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.
For the First Lady, Remi Tinubu, Nigerian workers’ support for the nation’s economy is
Opposition leaders, including ex-Vice President Atiku Abubakar and Peter Obi, also commended Nigerian workers for their efforts in reshaping the country.
Governors across the country equally praised workers for their tireless efforts in making Nigeria a better place.
Credit: channelstv.com
The post Nigerian Workers Celebrate May Day Amid Biting Economic Realities appeared first on The Ghanaian Chronicle.
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