Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi has used the 2026 Workers’ Day celebration to draw attention to the worsening condition of Nigerian workers, sharply criticising the economic policies of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration. Obi said many workers across the country are facing severe hardship as inflation, rising food prices, and increasing transport costs continue to reduce the value of wages.
Workers’ Day, observed globally on May 1, is dedicated to recognising the contribution of workers and advocating better labour conditions. Obi used the occasion to salute Nigerian workers while also calling for urgent reforms aimed at improving their welfare and restoring dignity to labour.
Obi Commends Workers Across Vital Sectors
In a message posted on his X platform account, Obi praised Nigerian workers for their commitment and resilience, describing them as the backbone of any productive society. He acknowledged the efforts of professionals in education, healthcare, agriculture, transportation, security, and manufacturing, saying their daily sacrifices sustain the country.
According to him, teachers continue shaping future generations, healthcare workers save lives under difficult conditions, farmers feed the nation, while transport operators and manufacturers keep the economy moving. He stressed that no nation can function effectively without the dedication of its workforce.
Obi noted that despite their central role in national development, many workers remain poorly rewarded and continue to operate under harsh economic realities.
Rising Cost of Living Deepens Workers’ Struggles
The former Anambra State governor said it is troubling that millions of Nigerians who contribute meaningfully to society can no longer afford a decent standard of living. He argued that wages have been overtaken by inflation and that the current minimum wage is no longer enough to meet basic needs.
He lamented that workers who teach, heal, build, farm, protect, and serve the nation daily are still denied fair compensation and dignity. According to him, the rising cost of food, transport, housing, and other essentials has left many households under pressure.
Obi maintained that any meaningful economic agenda must place workers at the centre, insisting that national growth cannot be sustained when the labour force is neglected.
Obi Call for Political Accountability
Beyond economic concerns, Obi urged workers to use their collective political influence to demand better governance. He said leadership should be based on competence, character, capacity, credibility, and compassion rather than ethnicity, corruption, or empty promises.
He encouraged citizens to reject failure and bad governance whenever they have the opportunity to vote, adding that responsible leadership is necessary to create a country where hard work is respected and rewarded fairly.
He ended his Workers’ Day message with his familiar slogan, saying that a New Nigeria remains possible if citizens insist on accountability and justice.
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