Workers’ Day 2025: Government Declares May 1st Public Holiday, Urges Workers to Drive National Growth

 

Thursday, May 1st, 2025, will be observed as a national public holiday in Nigeria in celebration of Workers’ Day. This official declaration was made by the Honourable Minister of Interior, Dr. Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, who addressed the nation on behalf of the federal government.

The announcement not only confirmed the day of rest for the country’s labour force but also served as a broader call for unity, innovation, and productivity in the ongoing pursuit of national development. The Minister’s message was more than ceremonial—it was a passionate appeal to Nigeria’s workforce to embrace the principles of hard work, creativity, and purpose-driven service.

Labour Day, also known globally as International Workers’ Day or May Day, is an annual event dedicated to honouring the contributions of workers and the labour movement. In Nigeria, the celebration takes on added importance, given the critical role played by workers across all sectors in sustaining the country’s socio-economic fabric.

“Workers are the backbone of our nation,” said Dr. Tunji-Ojo in a statement that both celebrated and challenged the country’s workforce. “Their diligence and sacrifice are what have elevated Nigeria to a respected position among the community of nations.”

Acknowledging the relentless efforts of Nigerian workers, the Minister spoke of their pivotal role in driving industrialisation, securing economic growth, and shaping the country's identity on the global stage. He emphasised that every bit of progress in infrastructure, health, education, and governance owes its success to the men and women who commit their talents and energies daily.

The government’s declaration of the holiday was underscored by a deeper message—a reminder that there is “dignity in labour.” This phrase, though familiar, carried renewed weight in the context of the Minister’s address. Dr. Tunji-Ojo encouraged all workers, regardless of their sector, to not only take pride in their roles but to also elevate their standards of service and professionalism.

He noted, “There is dignity in labour; the dedication and commitment to the work we do is vital to nation-building.” He further challenged the workforce to adopt a mindset of innovation and to foster productivity that can directly influence the quality of governance and national output.

This call to action aligns with the administration’s broader vision encapsulated in President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. At the heart of this agenda lies a promise to reinvigorate Nigeria’s institutions, improve economic indicators, and ensure equitable distribution of national resources.

Echoing this vision, the Minister noted that improving the calibre of labour automatically uplifts governance. “When workers raise the bar of their trade, it naturally raises the standard of leadership,” Dr. Tunji-Ojo explained. “Through this synergy, all Nigerians, regardless of background, will benefit from the wealth of this great nation.”

Security, often cited as a prerequisite for sustainable growth, also featured prominently in the Minister’s address. He reassured citizens and foreigners alike that the administration remains unwavering in its commitment to ensuring the safety of lives and property. According to him, peace and stability must prevail if the country is to achieve its economic ambitions and attract both local and international investment.

“Our pledge to protect every citizen and guest in Nigeria is firm,” Dr. Tunji-Ojo affirmed. “Without peace, there can be no prosperity, and without safety, dreams cannot flourish.”

Against a backdrop of economic reforms and increasing expectations for public service delivery, the Minister’s words sought to rekindle optimism among workers. He urged all Nigerians to keep faith with the administration’s efforts, stressing that real transformation is a process that requires patience, participation, and partnership between the government and the people.

As the country prepares to observe the May Day holiday, the spirit of unity, resilience, and ambition remains central to national conversations. This year’s celebration offers more than a break from routine; it’s a moment of reflection on the value of labour, a renewed commitment to excellence, and a hopeful glance toward the future.

Nigerian workers, from bustling city centres to quiet rural communities, are invited to celebrate not just themselves but the collective spirit that sustains the nation. The Minister concluded his message with heartfelt wishes for a joyful celebration and a hopeful reminder: “Let us work together to ensure that the sweat of our labour brings prosperity not just today, but for generations to come.”