The Labour Party on Friday, May 1, felicitated Nigerian workers on the occasion of International Workers’ Day, urging authorities to step up efforts in improving the welfare of workers amid growing economic challenges.
This was disclosed by the party’s National Publicity Secretary, Ken Asogwa, in a statement issued in Abuja.
The party described Workers’ Day as a highly significant event, adding that the party’s identity since its registration in 2003 has remained closely tied to the struggles and aspirations of Nigerian workers.
It stressed the need for consistently giving importance to policies that raise the status of workers and safeguard their interests.
Although the party conceded that the current administration had made some recent efforts, such as raising the minimum wage, it argued that these measures were not enough to deal with the current economic realities.
“We use this opportunity to appeal to those in authority to step up efforts towards improving the welfare of Nigerian workers,” Asogwa said.
“While we recognise the current administration’s actions to alleviate the harsh realities faced by workers, especially the recent increase in the minimum wage, we stress that there is much more to be done, particularly in the face of prevailing inflationary pressures.”
The party also commended organised labour, especially the Nigeria Labour Congress and the Trade Union Congress of Nigeria, for their consistent advocacy and commitment to the rights of workers.
The statement read, “LP commends the Nigerian Labour Congress, the Trade Union Congress and their affiliate unions for their unwavering commitment to the Nigerian project and the protection of the rights of workers.
The Labour Party reaffirmed its commitment to continued support for policies that promote fair wages and follow global standards set by the International Labour Organisation.
“We assure the Nigerian workers that the Labour Party stands firmly with them and will never abandon the collective struggle for good governance that guarantees fair wages and is in line with the ideals and standards of the International Labour Organisation,” Asogwa added.
Looking forward, the party called on workers to stay committed to its cause, and was optimistic about what it called the eventual victory of the people.
“Aluta continua, victoria ascerta,” the statement said.
