Senate President Godswill Akpabio and First Lady Remi Tinubu have paid tribute to Nigerian workers on the occasion of the 2025 Workers’ Day celebration, acknowledging their resilience and vital role in national development.

May 1st is observed annually in Nigeria as Workers’ Day, a time to honour the contributions of the nation’s workforce across various sectors.
In separate messages, Akpabio and Mrs. Tinubu commended the dedication of Nigerian workers despite the economic challenges facing the country.
Akpabio, in a statement issued by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Eseme Eyiboh, lauded workers for their unwavering commitment to excellence and productivity.

“Today, we celebrate the hard work and dedication of Nigerian workers,” Akpabio stated. “We in the Senate, and the National Assembly as a whole, acknowledge your invaluable contributions to our nation’s development. Despite the obvious challenges, you remain the backbone of our economy.”
He further assured that the Senate would continue to protect workers’ rights and provide support for their demands.

“No Nigerian worker will be victimised for expressing their views or seeking legal redress. We will work with the Executive to address workers’ concerns and create more opportunities for growth and prosperity,” Akpabio added.
Meanwhile, First Lady Remi Tinubu, in her statement, expressed deep appreciation to workers across the country for their tireless efforts in building the nation.
“This year’s celebration is a reminder of the dignity of labour and the importance of creating equitable opportunities. I salute the men and women who rise each day to support our economy,” she said.
Mrs. Tinubu praised Nigerian workers in both formal and informal sectors, describing them as the “driving force behind the country’s progress.”
The 2025 May Day celebration comes at a time of economic hardship in Nigeria, with inflation driving up the cost of living and eroding wages. Though President Bola Tinubu approved a new ₦70,000 minimum wage last year, many states and private employers have yet to implement it, citing operational costs.
Across the nation, workers marked the day with rallies and events, while the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) called on workers in Rivers State to protest the declaration of a state of emergency in the state.