May Day: ‘We Recognize Your Challenges’ – Akpabio Tells Nigerian Workers, Pledges Better Welfare

The Senate President, Godswill Akpabio, has congratulated Nigerian workers on the occasion of the 2026 International Workers’ Day, describing them as the true heroes of the nation’s democracy and the engine of its economy.

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Naija News reports that Akpabio, in a statement personally signed by him and released on Friday, May 1, 2026, through his media aide, Eseme Eyiboh, praised workers for their resilience, dedication and patriotism despite the difficult conditions under which many of them operate.

He said the sacrifice and commitment of workers across the country had continued to sustain Nigeria and keep its economy moving.

The Senate President said Nigerian workers deserved to be celebrated for their contributions to national development.

He said, “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.”

Akpabio noted that workers in different sectors had continued to play critical roles in the survival and progress of the country.

According to him, teachers, farmers, health workers, artisans, traders, civil servants, security personnel and private sector employees all remain central to Nigeria’s development.

He added, “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.”

Senate Pledges Better Welfare

Akpabio acknowledged the hardship facing Nigerian workers, including the rising cost of living and pressure in the workplace.

He said the 10th National Assembly was aware of these challenges and remained committed to making laws that would improve the welfare and dignity of workers.

He stated, “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 labour.”

The Senate President said recent legislative efforts, including the new National Minimum Wage Act and other welfare-related interventions, reflected the commitment of the National Assembly to improving the condition of workers.

He said the Senate would continue to support reforms that protect workers, promote decent jobs and strengthen the country’s labour system.

Akpabio also called on employers in both the public and private sectors to prioritise the welfare of their workers.

He said national productivity and prosperity could only be sustained when workers were motivated and properly treated.

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

The Senate President added that employers must recognise that workers are not only instruments of production but also important partners in national development.

Akpabio praised labour unions for their cooperation and assured them of continued partnership with the National Assembly.

He said the Senate would keep working with organised labour, employers and relevant government institutions to advance policies that would improve workers’ welfare.

He added, “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.”

Akpabio wished all Nigerian workers a happy Workers’ Day and urged them to remain hopeful as efforts continue to address the challenges affecting the labour force.