By Gabriel Ewepu

ABUJA – AS Nigeria sets to join rest of the world to commemorate 2024 Workers’ Day, also referred to as May Day on May 1, 2024, the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre, CISLAC, Tuesday, declared that Nigerian workers deserve empowerment, value addition and adequate compensation based on their doggedness and resilience to immensely contribute to the development and sustenance of the nation over the years in all sectors of the economy.

The Executive Director, CISLAC, Awual Rafsanjani, in a statement pointed out that the Nigerian workers in both private and public sector have given their blood to keep Nigeria going amid the hardship and inhuman conditions they find themselves, therefore, assured that CISLAC remains firmly committed to championing the rights of Nigerian workers and ensuring their voices are heard.

Rafsanjani said with the 2024 commemoration of International Workers’ Day, Nigerian workers are “navigating a complex landscape”, therefore, CISLAC stands shoulder to shoulder with the Nigerian labour movement in their pursuit of a just and equitable work environment.

He said: “As the world commemorates International Workers’ Day, the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre, CISLAC, joins the Nigerian people in recognizing the immense contributions of Nigerian workers to our nation’s progress.

“The Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre, CISLAC, the Nigeria Chapter of Transparency International, extends its heartfelt appreciation to the Nigerian workforce, the bedrock of the nation’s socio-economic progress.

“The Executive Director, CISLAC, Awual Musa (Rafsanjani) reiterates the organization’s unwavering commitment to advocating for Nigerian workers’ rights and well-being.

“This year’s International Workers’ Day finds Nigerian workers navigating a complex landscape. While the official theme remains to be announced, CISLAC recognizes the ongoing struggle many Nigerian workers face in securing a living wage amidst a challenging economic climate.

“The rising cost of living continues to disproportionately impact working families, threatening their ability to meet basic needs.

“Beyond pronouncements, CISLAC urges the Nigerian government to prioritize the following policy recommendations to create a more enabling environment for Nigerian
workers: Policy Recommendation 1: Implement a comprehensive national social protection
strategy that provides access to healthcare, unemployment benefits, and pension
plans for all workers, particularly those within the informal sector.

“Policy Recommendation 2 : Strengthen enforcement mechanisms for existing labor
laws to ensure adherence to minimum wage standards, working hour limitations,
and safety regulations in all workplaces.

“Policy Recommendation 3: Invest in skills development programs that equip Nigerian workers with the necessary skills to thrive in the ever-evolving job market.
Ensure human development for workers including training and refresher course.

“By working collaboratively –government, Civil Society Organizations, the private sector,
and the labour movement –we can create an environment where Nigerian workers are empowered, valued, and adequately compensated for their contributions.

“When Nigerian workers thrive, Nigeria thrives. Let us join hands and build a future where decent work and fair treatment are not just aspirations, but a lived reality for all Nigerians.

“However, amidst these challenges, Nigerian workers have consistently demonstrated remarkable resilience and resourcefulness. Their unwavering dedication keeps the wheels of the nation turning, fostering growth and development across all sectors.

“CISLAC applauds the ingenuity and work ethic ingrained in the Nigerian workforce. CISLAC recognizes the critical role Nigerian workers play in every facet of the nation’s development.

“CISLAC stands shoulder to shoulder with the Nigerian labor movement in their pursuit of
a just and equitable work environment.”