Emma Elekwa
A presidential hopeful of the African Democratic Congress (ADC), Peter Obi has paid tribute to workers across the world, with a special focus on Nigerian workers, describing them as the backbone of every nation and critical to national development.
In a message to commemorate International Workers’ Day, Obi commended the resilience and sacrifices of Nigerian workers, noting that despite harsh economic realities, they continue to sustain families, institutions, and the broader economy.
He expressed concern over what he described as the declining value of labour in the country, stating that the current minimum wage no longer guarantees even a modest standard of living.
According to him, rising inflation, food prices, and transportation costs have significantly eroded workers’ purchasing power, leaving many unable to meet basic needs.
Obi emphasised that no nation can develop beyond the strength and wellbeing of its workforce, stressing that productivity and progress are rooted in the quality and commitment of human capital.
He warned that when workers suffer, the nation inevitably bears the consequences, but noted that empowering workers would lead to national prosperity.
The former Anambra State governor also highlighted the political power of workers, urging them to utilise their voice and vote to influence governance.
He called on Nigerian workers to support leadership defined by competence, character, capacity, credibility, and compassion.
Obi further encouraged workers to reject corruption, poor governance, and divisive politics, insisting that collective action can help build a nation where hard work is respected and fairly rewarded.
He concluded by reiterating that a truly productive nation must be founded on justice, fairness, and respect for labour, urging citizens to work together toward achieving such a society.
