Labour leaders warn rising insecurity and poverty are worsening workers’ welfare and limiting decent work opportunities in Nigeria
President of the Nigeria Labour Congress, Joe Ajaero, and President of the Trade Union Congress, Festus Osifo, in Abuja, warned that rising insecurity and poverty are eroding workers’ welfare and undermining productivity across Nigeria.
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The labour leaders spoke at a pre-May Day lecture organised by labour unions ahead of the 2026 Workers’ Day celebration. They said worsening economic conditions continue to shrink access to decent work nationwide.
Joe Ajaero described insecurity and poverty as major barriers to employment and economic growth. He said millions of Nigerians remain trapped below the poverty line while quality jobs continue to decline.
The union leader stressed that improved security would revive agriculture and small businesses. He noted that safer communities would allow citizens to return to farms and markets without fear.
Joe Ajaero also lamented that nearly 90 per cent of jobs are now in the informal sector. He said many workers lack pensions, job security, and fair conditions of service.
Despite the concerns, he commended the Federal Government for reintroducing gratuity payments. He described the move as a step towards restoring dignity for retirees.
Festus Osifo called for stronger solidarity among workers and stakeholders. He insisted that decent work remains non-negotiable and urged coordinated efforts to tackle poverty and insecurity.
Delivering the keynote lecture, Professor Kunle Olawunmi said poverty and insecurity pose a direct threat to national stability. He warned that no productive economy can thrive amid fear, hunger, and displacement.
Meanwhile, divisions emerged within the Edo State chapter of the Nigeria Labour Congress over plans for Workers’ Day.
The caretaker committee, led by Professor Monday Igbafen, said workers would not hold celebrations, citing ongoing internal challenges.
However, a rival faction led by Comrade Bernard Egwakide insisted that workers would gather at the Samuel Ogbemudia Stadium in Benin City to mark the day.
In Oyo State, the government praised labour unions for maintaining a constructive relationship with authorities.
Commissioner for Information, Dotun Oyelade, said the state has sustained prompt salary payments and introduced a 13th-month salary.
Chairman of the state NLC, Kayode Martins, acknowledged improvements in workers’ welfare. He said structured gratuity payments and salary adjustments have reduced hardship among retirees.
In Osun State, governorship hopeful Bola Oyebamiji used the occasion to outline a worker-focused agenda. He pledged to prioritise welfare, dignity, and economic opportunity if elected.
Similarly, the Federation of Informal Workers Organisations of Nigeria called for urgent social protection reforms. The group said most workers remain excluded from pensions, healthcare, and workplace safety schemes.
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The warning from labour leaders underscores a pressing national challenge, as stakeholders seek urgent and sustainable solutions to protect workers and stabilise the economy.
David Okere is a journalist and contributor to Freelanews.com, covering business, governance, public affairs, and human-interest stories with a commitment to accuracy, balance, and public interest reporting.
