The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rt. Hon. Yakubu Dogara, has assured Nigerian workers of the commitment of the House to workers’ welfare.
In a statement issued by his spokesman, Mr. Turaki Hassan, Dogara, maintained that improvement in the condition of workers is critical to the change agenda of the present administration.
“The International Workers’ Day was borne out of the struggle for improved workers’ rights and better working conditions”, he said.
Speaking further, the Speaker drew attention to the ongoing review of obsolete and outdated laws by the House, many of which he said “would, when amended, make life easier for people who engage in productive activities across the country.”
“Workers are the lifeblood of every nation and a well trained and motivated workforce is vital to our goal of a vibrant, strong, productive and efficient economy. A modern, knowledgeable and effective workforce is at the heart of the legislative agenda of the 8th House of Representatives “
“Today, we honour those silent heroes who brave tough conditions to deliver their best; from our teachers to our doctors to our civil servants, to our farmers, to our self employed youths and women, who eke out a living despite harsh economic conditions.
For their sake, we shall do all in our power and employ the necessary legislative tools to make a difference in their lives.”
Dogara also spoke about unemployment, saying that: “Unemployment remains one of greatest threats to both our security and progress.
It is said that an idle mind is the devil’s workshop. We hope that the 2016 Budget will be faithfully implemented to kickstart the process of national renewal, and we will ensure that quality job creation is at the centre of any government contracts and international agreements.
We must invest in the training and retraining of our workers to be the best and to have the necessary tools to compete anywhere in the world.”
The Speaker congratulated the Nigerian Labour Congress and other Labour Unions and labour leaders for their sacrifices, maturity, partnership and understanding they have exhibited in the conduct of Labour relations in Nigeria and wished them happy labour day celebrations.