Every year on May 1st, workers around the world celebrate May Day, also known as Workers’ Day. In Nigeria, this year’s celebration was full of energy and color as thousands of workers gathered at Eagle Square in Abuja.

The event brought together members of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC). They came from different parts of the country, proudly wearing uniforms that represented their various unions. Many were singing solidarity songs and dancing to show their joy and unity.

This year’s May Day comes just a few months after President Bola Tinubu’s administration increased the national minimum wage to N70,000. This decision followed the government’s removal of fuel subsidy on May 29th, 2023, which had caused the cost of living to rise.

Even though many workers were happy about the new minimum wage, others believe it’s still not enough. With prices of goods and services going up, they are calling for another review to help them cope with daily expenses.

The celebration at Eagle Square was lively and peaceful, and workers showed that they are proud of their role in building the nation. It was still unclear if President Tinubu would attend the event himself or send a representative.

May Day remains a strong reminder of how important workers are to every country’s progress. Nigerian workers used today not just to celebrate, but also to speak up for better conditions.