Labour leaders in Oyo State have raised alarm over worsening insecurity and deepening economic hardship, describing both as serious threats to workers’ welfare and the future of decent work in Nigeria.
The concerns were voiced during the 2026 Workers’ Day celebration held at the Lekan Salami Sports Complex, Adamasingba, Ibadan, where union leaders gathered alongside government officials and workers from across the state.
Speaking in line with the theme of this year’s celebration, “Insecurity, Poverty – Bane of Decent Work,” the Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Oyo State chapter, Comrade Kayode Martins, and his Trade Union Congress (TUC) counterpart, Comrade Bosun Olabiyi, stressed that the combined effects of insecurity and rising living costs continue to erode workers’ standard of living.
They noted that recent increases in fuel prices have triggered a ripple effect across the economy, leading to higher transportation fares, rising rents, and escalating costs of basic commodities, thereby placing additional strain on workers.
While acknowledging steps taken by the Oyo State Government including the implementation of a ₦80,000 minimum wage and the introduction of a ₦10,000 monthly palliative for workers ,the labour leaders urged governments at all levels to intensify efforts to tackle unemployment, enforce labour laws, and safeguard democratic principles through credible electoral processes.
In his remarks, Governor Seyi Makinde, represented by the Secretary to the State Government, Professor Musbau Babatunde, reiterated the administration’s commitment to workers’ welfare. He stated that salaries and pensions have been paid consistently since 2019 and highlighted ongoing initiatives to strengthen security through support for security agencies and the Amotekun Corps.
The event also featured goodwill messages from labour stakeholders, including the National Secretary of the Nigeria Union of Pensioners, Olusegun Abatan, who called for sustained collaboration between government and labour unions to address workers’ challenges.
A major highlight of the celebration was a colourful parade by various labour unions, showcasing participation from both formal and informal sectors across the state.
Workers’ Day, observed annually on May 1, provides an opportunity to recognise the contributions of workers and reflect on policies affecting labour and national development.