From Ndubuisi Orji, Abuja
The minority caucus of the House of Representatives has charged the Federal Government to prioritise fair labour standards, as well as promote decent work.
The caucus, in a statement by the minority leader, Kingsley Chinda, also demanded an end to exploitation of workers, in the country, and equal opportunities for everyone..
The opposition lawmakers, while felicitating with workers on the occasion of this year’s Workers Day, expressed their unwavering solidarity with workers across the various sectors of the country’s economy..
They called on the government to urgently consider a living wage for workers, in the country, and implement sami with the same speed it implement increases in taxes and tariffs.
“As we mark this Workers’ Day, and honour the contributions of workers, let us recognise the challenges faced by workers, including poor working conditions, inadequate remuneration, and erosion of workers’ rights, reaffirm our collective responsibility to advocate for a fairer, more inclusive society where every worker is treated with dignity and respect.
“As the Leader of the Minority Caucus of the House of Representatives, we reiterate the commitments of my colleagues in the Minority Parties of the House of Representatives to addressing these issues through legislative actions and advocacy.
“The Minority Leadership resolves not only to reflect on the pressing issues facing the Nigerian workforce but to act on and prioritise the welfare and rights of workers, just as we have commenced the drive for living wage for Nigerian worker against the minimum wage offered by the government.
“We urge the government to prioritise policies that promote decent work, social protection, and fair labour standards. We demand an end to the exploitation of workers and the promotion of equal opportunities for all.
“To the workers, we say thank you for your dedication and hard work. Your labour builds our nation, and we honour your contributions,’ the caucus stated.