FG Announces May 1st, 2024 as Workers’ Day Public Holiday
Wednesday, May 1, 2024, has been proclaimed a national holiday by the Federal Government in honour of Workers’ Day 2024.
According to Aishetu Ndayako, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Interior, Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo made the announcement.
The Federal Government announced on Tuesday that Wednesday, May 1, 2024, will be observed as a public holiday in honour of Workers’ Day.
The minister was described as restating the need of fairness, efficiency, and excellence in all areas of work.
“In keeping with the theme of this year, which is ensuring safety and health at work in a changing climate, I wish to state that the Federal Government remains steadfast in its resolve to prioritise the safety and well-being of all citizens,” the minister added.
“Let me reiterate Mr. President’s dedication to create a work environment where every employee can flourish and make a significant contribution to the advancement of our country.”
The minister urged greater steps to reduce the negative impacts of climate change through synergy while acknowledging the role of workers.
The Minister also emphasised the need of Nigerians sticking to the present.
The Renewed Hope Agenda of the administration seeks to wish workers a joyous celebration, the statement said.
The Workers’ Day commemoration this year takes place in the backdrop of growing inflation and severe gasoline shortages in several regions of the country.
Millions of drivers and commuters are fighting to buy the goods at a higher price as lines have twisted onto the streets of major cities around the country.
During his inauguration one year ago, President Bola Tinubu announced the end of fuel subsidies, a decision that was expected to solve a fuel crisis and free up limited funding for development projects.
However, the condition has not improved even after almost a year. Logistics problems were attributed by the Nigerian National Petroleum Company Limited (NNPCL) for the current situation.
On Wednesday, President Tinubu is scheduled to give a national broadcast commemorating Workers’ Day of this year. Among the topics many anticipate his speech to cover are calls for a new minimum wage, gasoline shortages, and inflation.
Over a new minimum wage for state employees, labour groups and the federal government have been negotiating.
The National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) reports that the withdrawal of gasoline subsidies and the floating of the naira in March 2024 caused inflation rates to reach a 28-year high of 33.2%, which intensified the calls for a new minimum wage.