May Day: Senate Promises Workers Legislation For Living Wage

By Ayodele Oni 

The Senate has described Nigerian workers as true heroes of our democracy and the engine of economy.

To this end,  President of the Senate, Godswill Akpabio, has affirmed that the Senate remains unwavering in its commitment to legislating for a living wage, safer workplaces, pension reforms, and policies that expand job creation and protect the dignity of labor.

He explained that the 10th National Assembly recognizes the challenges workers face, from rising costs of living to workplace demands and would do everything to alleviate the hardship.

The Senate President’s promise and  happiness with workers were contained in a May Day message personally signed by him on the occasion of the International Labour Day Celebration.

He appealed to employers in both public and private sectors to prioritize the welfare of workers, saying “A motivated workforce is the foundation of national productivity and prosperity.”

Akpabio, expressed happiness with Nigerian workers for their resilience, hard work, and patriotism despite the challenges they face in the course of their duties.

He declared, “On this auspicious occasion of Workers’ Day 2026, I, Senator Godswill Akpabio, President of the 10th Senate and chairman of the National Assembly, on behalf of the National Assembly, join millions of Nigerians at home and in the diaspora to commend and congratulate the resilient, industrious, and patriotic Nigerian workers whose sweat and sacrifice continue to sustain the heartbeat of our nation.

“Today, we celebrate you, the teachers who mold our future, the farmers who feed our nation, the doctors and nurses who heal our land, the artisans, traders, civil servants, security personnel, and private sector employees whose daily toil builds Nigeria. 

“You are the true heroes of our democracy and the engine of our economy.

“The 10th National Assembly recognizes the challenges workers face, from rising costs of living to workplace demands. 

“I assure you that the Senate remains unwavering in its commitment to legislating for a living wage, safer workplaces, pension reforms, and policies that expand job creation and protect the dignity of labor.

“Ghe passage of the new National Minimum Wage Act and the implementation of workers’ welfare packages are testaments to this commitment.

“As we mark this May Day, I urge employers in both public and private sectors to prioritize the welfare of workers. A motivated workforce is the foundation of national productivity and prosperity.

“To organized labour, I commend your constructive engagements and patriotism. The Senate will continue to partner with the Nigeria Labour Congress, Trade Union Congress, and all affiliates to ensure that the voice of the Nigerian worker is heard and respected in the chambers of policy and law.

“On behalf of the Senate of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, I salute your courage, celebrate your contributions, and pledge that we will not relent until every Nigerian worker can look to the future with hope, dignity, and confidence.”