Workers across the country have been admonished to keep hope alive, despite the prevailing daunting challenges and stifling socio-economic conditions.
Senator Kola Balogun gave the admonition in a message congratulating Nigerian workers, both in the public and private sectors on the 2023 Workers’ Day celebration.
The Workers’ Day, also known as the May Day, is an international day for the workers celebrated in more than 80 countries globally.
It is a day set aside to commemorate the struggles and gains made by workers and the labour movements and it is observed in many countries on May 1.
It is a day for the celebration of all categories of workers and working class and it is promoted by national and international labour organisations.
Senator Balogun, who represents Oyo South Senatorial District in the National Assembly, said the day is a reminder of the important roles by workers in ensuring the growth and development of the country.
“Given their importance, both in the public and private sector, it is of utmost importance to celebrate this special day as a reminder of the workers in national development.
“It is a day workers in this country, nay globally gather together to reflect on their achievements, in the face of challenges and stifling socio-economic conditions,” he said.
The Vice Chairman, Senate Committee on Sports and Youth Development went down the memory lane as he said May 1 was first declared a public holiday in the Second Republic.
“It was a former governor of the old Kano State, the late Alhaji Abubakar Rimi, who first declared May 1 as a public holiday during the Second Republic.
“It was thereafter recognised and subsequently declared as a national public holiday by the Federal Government of Nigeria,” he said.
Senator Balogun congratulated workers in Oyo State and across the country, noting that better days are ahead.
He also admonished them to hold on to their commitment and contributions to ensuring a steady growth and development of the state, nay the entire country.
“I will always acknowledge the critical role being played by you all in ensuring the growth and development of our dear state and Nigeria.
“Your patriotic and unwavering commitment and dedication to your duty cannot go unnoticed. You are, indeed, one of the strong pillars holding our country together.
“On this occasion of Workers’ Day celebration, I want you to celebrate with the mindset of keeping hope alive.
“I want you to remain firm in your believe in the lessons of May Day namely, always seeking for improved working conditions for you all.
“You must not relent in your fervent conviction that well-motivated workers, with better pay and good working condition is synonymous with a steady national development,” Senator Balogun added.
