By Henry Nnaemeka
Prince Adewole Adebayo, a former presidential candidate of the Social Democratic Party (SDP), has urged Nigerian leaders to prioritise the welfare and dignity of workers, stressing that labour must be rewarded with opportunity rather than reduced to a daily struggle for survival.
In a goodwill message to mark International Workers’ Day, Adebayo paid tribute to Nigerian workers, describing them as the backbone of national development and economic resilience.
“Today, we honour the hands that build, the minds that innovate, and the spirit that refuses to quit,” he said, underscoring the critical role of labour in driving productivity and sustaining the nation’s economy.
However, he warned that the value of work is being eroded by policy failures and poor leadership, leaving many Nigerians unable to translate hard work into improved living conditions. He argued that governance must ensure that diligence leads to economic security, better wages and real opportunities for advancement.
Adebayo further stressed that the true wealth of any nation lies in the wellbeing of its workforce, not merely in its natural resources. He called on policymakers to adopt people-centred economic strategies that empower workers, protect their rights and expand opportunities for growth.
His remarks come amid rising concerns over inflation, wage pressures and job insecurity, with organised labour intensifying calls for reforms to improve workers’ conditions nationwide.
Reiterating his position on governance, Adebayo said meaningful progress would remain elusive unless leadership becomes more accountable and responsive to citizens’ needs.
“A nation cannot move forward when its workers are left behind,” he added.