Tinubu Assures Nigerian Workers He Doesn’t Take Their Patience, Support For Granted

In the wake of 2024 Workers Day, President Bola Tinubu on Wednesday assured the Nigerian workers that their days of worrying are gone, adding that he doesn't take their patience and support for granted.

Tinubu -- represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima -- said during a May 1 celebration ceremony at the Eagle Square in Abuja that the workers were the backbone of the country, describing them as "an indispensable component of the nation's engine."

The statement was shared on the official X (formerly known as Twitter) account of the Presidency Nigeria.

"Great Nigerian workers, your role as an indispensable component of the nation's engine cannot be overstated by any government if the quest for a just and progressive society is to be realized. Therefore, I extend my most heartfelt congratulations to you on this very important celebration," the president said.

"I do not take for granted the understanding, patience, commitment, and support you have shown throughout the implementation of this government's policies and programs aimed at positively transforming our great nation."

The president emphasized that their contributions to Nigeria played a significant role in the government's efforts to rescue the economy.

Tinubu told workers that they don't need to worry about wages anymore as his administration is ready to consider a national living, instead of a minimum wage, if recommended by the 37-member Tripartite Committee on Minimum Wage created on Jan. 30, 2024, by the Federal Government.

The president explained that the committee's job was to advise and suggest a national minimum wage that fits our economy in the current conditions, noting that since then, the committee has been working in collaboration with labor leaders to determine a new National Minimum Wage.

However, he pointed out that despite concerted efforts, the committee was unable to reach a consensus at its last meeting.

"This shall be resolved soon and I assure you that your days of worrying are over. Indeed, this government is open to the committee's suggestion of not just a minimum wage, but a living wage," Tinubu said.

As far as insecurity in the country is concerned, the president assured the workers that his administration is fully committed to tackling these security challenges including banditry and kidnapping.