President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has restated his commitment to protecting the rights and welfare of Nigerian workers, especially as economic pressures continue to rise. Speaking through the Minister of Labour and Employment, Muhammad Dingyadi, the President addressed participants at the first-ever Quadrennial Delegates Conference of the Trade Union Congress (TUC) held in Abuja on Friday.
During his message, Tinubu praised TUC’s leadership under its National President, Festus Osifo, for remaining consistent in its efforts to push for better living conditions for workers. He credited the union’s involvement in achieving a new national minimum wage, following the fuel subsidy removal in 2023, as a major example of effective collaboration with the government.
Tinubu highlighted the need to enforce fair workplace practices, update labour laws, promote skills training, and ensure economic fairness for all. He pointed out that while technology can open up new possibilities for industries and growth, it also creates risks of job loss and inequality. He said the government must balance digital innovation with fairness, equity, and justice to protect workers in this evolving landscape.
Speaking on the conference’s theme, “The Future of Work: Ensuring Fair Labour Practices, Economic Justice and Digital Health,” he urged delegates to select leaders who value transparency, have a strong sense of responsibility, and can adapt to the modern work environment.
TUC President Festus Osifo, in his remarks, emphasized the importance of the new four-year conference cycle, made possible by a constitutional change approved by the Ministry of Labour. He commended Nigerian workers for their strength and dedication despite facing tough economic conditions.
Osifo also announced events to honor workers during the conference, including a dinner and awards ceremony. He stressed that workers are the backbone of the nation’s growth, contributing to GDP and keeping the country functional—yet often suffer the most from inflation and insecurity. He expressed concern over the continued devaluation of the naira and how widespread insecurity has pushed farmers off their lands, worsening the food crisis.
