Workers in Lagos State on Thursday joined their counterparts across the globe to commemorate the 2025 International Workers’ Day, with the theme: “Reclaiming the Civic Space in the Midst of Economic Hardship.”
The celebration, held at the Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Onikan, witnessed a strong turnout despite early morning rainfall, as various labour unions participated in a colourful march-past adorned in customized T-shirts, caps, and Ankara fabrics of varying colours.
Addressing the gathering, Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu adopted all requests presented by labour unions and reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to strengthening the state’s workforce and delivering a more robust public service. He also pledged that next year’s May Day celebration will take place at the fully rehabilitated National Stadium in Surulere.
The Commissioner for Establishments and Training, Mr. Afolabi Ayantayo, and the Head of Service, Mr. Bode Agoro, lauded Lagos workers for their dedication and highlighted various initiatives by the Sanwo-Olu administration to improve staff welfare and provide a conducive work environment.
In her remarks, Chairperson of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Comrade Funmilayo Sessi, appreciated the state government for prioritizing workers’ welfare and paying the new N85,000 minimum wage along with consequential adjustments. However, she appealed for the inclusion of workers in agencies and parastatals in the wage implementation process to cushion the impact of economic hardship.
Also speaking, Chairman of the Trade Union Congress (TUC), Lagos State chapter, Comrade Gbenga Ekundayo, commended workers for their resilience and urged the federal government to grant Lagos a special status with increased allocations. He emphasized that such support would help the state cater to its large population and enhance infrastructure delivery. He further encouraged residents to fulfill their civic duty by paying taxes promptly.
Despite the rain, the Workers’ Day event was a vibrant celebration of labour and resilience, marked by unity, hope, and renewed calls for equity and improved livelihoods.