President Bola Tinubu has declared insecurity and poverty as urgent national challenges, warning that both continue to threaten jobs, productivity, and economic stability in the country.

Speaking through the Secretary to the Government of the Federation at the 2026 Workers’ Day celebration in Abuja, he said decent work cannot exist where citizens live in fear or struggle to afford basic needs. According to him, insecurity has disrupted farming, business activities, and other key sectors, making economic recovery more difficult.

Tinubu said the federal government is already implementing measures to address the situation, including community security programmes involving thousands of youths, expanded social welfare coverage for vulnerable households, and support schemes for small businesses and farmers. He also pointed to pension reforms and wage-related policies as part of efforts to improve workers’ welfare.

Despite these interventions, organised labour used the occasion to renew its demand for a significant wage increase, calling for a new national minimum wage of ₦225,000. Labour leaders said rising inflation and the high cost of living have made current earnings insufficient for most workers.

Across several states, governors highlighted ongoing efforts such as salary payments, recruitment in key sectors like health and education, and welfare reforms. Some workers’ unions commended improved engagement with governments, while others raised concerns over poverty levels, insecurity, and unpaid entitlements.

Labour groups also urged stronger security measures to protect workplaces, farms, and markets, stressing that safety is essential for productivity.

The celebration ended with renewed calls from both government and labour for urgent action to ease hardship and strengthen economic stability for Nigerian workers.