By Nkechi Eze
The Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) has called for sweeping reforms to improve the welfare, protection, and working conditions of Nigerian workers, warning that economic hardship and policy gaps continue to erode the dignity of labour across the country.
According to an official signed statement by the Executive Director of CISLAC, Auwal Musa Rafsanjani, issued to mark International Workers’ Day, the 2026 celebration comes at a critical time when millions of Nigerians are grappling with rising living costs, deepening inequality, and policies that have failed to cushion the impact of economic realities.
The statement noted that despite their indispensable contributions to national development, many Nigerian workers continue to endure difficult living conditions, with limited access to basic welfare and support systems.
CISLAC paid tribute to Nigeria’s uniformed personnel, including members of the armed forces and paramilitary services, both serving and retired, acknowledging their sacrifices in maintaining national security and stability. It also recognised the vital roles played by civil servants, private sector employees, and development workers in sustaining governance, driving economic growth, and delivering essential services nationwide.
The organisation commended development workers in particular for their resilience and continued commitment to promoting accountability, good governance, and improved livelihoods, even amid challenging operational environments.
CISLAC attributed the worsening conditions of workers to deep-rooted structural deficiencies within public service systems, stressing that existing subsidy frameworks and welfare mechanisms have largely failed to benefit the average Nigerian worker. It observed that, unlike in more responsive economies, many workers in Nigeria remain exposed and vulnerable due to weak institutional support.
The organisation further criticised what it described as short-term and unsustainable policy approaches by successive leaders, warning that the persistent neglect of comprehensive welfare strategies has pushed a significant portion of the workforce into enduring poverty.
Highlighting the erosion of labour dignity, CISLAC lamented that many workers and union members face inadequate protections, poor remuneration structures, and policies that do not reflect their contributions. It stressed that access to improved welfare both during active service and after retirement should be treated as a fundamental right rather than a discretionary privilege.
The statement called on governments at all levels to prioritise timely payment of salaries, ensure regular promotions, and invest meaningfully in training and capacity development, noting that skill enhancement initiatives remain grossly insufficient across sectors.
At the same time, CISLAC urged Nigerian workers to uphold professionalism and accountability by demonstrating renewed commitment to their duties. It cautioned against absenteeism, indiscipline, and the persistence of ghost worker practices, emphasising the need for integrity and efficiency in public and private service delivery.
The organisation maintained that building a fair and equitable labour system is central to achieving national stability, economic prosperity, and social justice.
CISLAC concluded by reaffirming its commitment to advocating policies that protect workers and foster a more inclusive society, while extending goodwill to Nigerian workers in commemoration of Workers’ Day.
