By Peter Adelowo
National Labour and Civil Society Secretary of the Social Democratic Party, SDP, Rosemary Effiong has called on relevant bodies including employers, government agencies, trade unions and civil society to collaborate in order to advance policies that will protect and promote decent environments for workers.
A statement signed by her in Abuja to commemorate the International workers’ Day charges stakeholders in labour matters to invest in up-scaling to ensure occupational safety, and embrace inclusive practices that empower the most vulnerable members of our workforce.
The statement emphasizes on the need to acknowledge the role of informal workers, women, migrant labourers, and frontline personnel whose voices have too often gone unheard.
“On this day, we reaffirm our commitment to ensuring that all workers, regardless of status or background, are treated with equity and respect” she states.
“Celebrating the Spirit of Labour Every year on May 1st, the world comes together to observe International Workers’ Day, also known as Labour Day, a moment of reflection, recognition, and renewed commitment to the dignity of work and the rights of workers everywhere”
“This day is not only rooted in the courageous history of labour movements but also stands as a global reminder of the essential role workers play in shaping societies, driving economies, and building nations” Effiong emphasizes.
“A Legacy of Struggle and Triumph International Workers’ Day traces its origins to the labour struggles of the late 19th century, particularly the historic Haymarket affair of 1886 in Chicago, where workers demanded fair working hours and decent conditions”
“From that moment onward, the day became a symbol of resistance, unity, and the pursuit of justice for workers around the globe”
“However, in some clans/society like Nigeria, workers receive wages that do not reflect the rising cost of living; welfare packages are often inadequate, lacking health insurance and other benefits” she stresses.
“Today, we honour those who paved the way for the rights we now uphold safe workplaces, fair wages, collective bargaining, and protection from exploitation. But we also recognize that these rights were hard won and must be continually safeguarded”
Recognizing Today’s Workers “As the world continues to evolve, so too does the nature of work. From factories to farms, hospitals to classrooms, construction sites to gig platforms, workers continue to form the backbone of society”
“Their contributions are immeasurable, and their dedication remains the driving force behind innovation, resilience, and progress.
“We must especially acknowledge the role of informal workers, women, migrant labourers, and frontline personnel whose voices have too often gone unheard. On this day, we reaffirm our commitment to ensuring that all workers, regardless of status or background, are treated with equity and respect.
Renewing Our Commitment
“As the National Labour and Civil Society Secretary, I call upon employers, government bodies, trade unions, and civil society to work hand-in-hand to advance policies that protect jobs, promote decent work, and reduce inequality.
“We must invest in up-scaling, ensure occupational safety, and embrace inclusive practices that empower the most vulnerable members of our workforce.
According to the statement, Effiong, urges the government to implement and enforce a realistic minimum wage to aligned with inflation noting that employers must prioritize comprehensive welfare programs which includes healthcare and housing. And Improved security measures for safer workplaces.”
The statement explains that, “international Workers’ Day is not just a celebration but a call to action.
“Let us not only commemorate the legacy of the labour movement but also commit ourselves to building a future where every worker enjoys dignity, security, and opportunity” Effiong adds.
By Georgina Humphrey
