Odita Sunday 
Odita Sunday
Workers of the Ministry of Police Affairs on Friday marked the 2026 International Workers’ Day with a strong message of unity, resilience, and renewed calls for improved welfare, as the union leadership paid glowing tribute to staff dedication amid mounting workplace demands.
Addressing members during the May Day celebration in Abuja, the Joint Chairperson of the Ministry’s union, Mrs. Agatha Okoli Anulika, applauded workers for their steadfast commitment to service, declaring, “Solidarity! Forever!” as she led colleagues in reaffirming their collective strength.
Mrs. Agatha said the occasion was not just symbolic but deeply reflective, noting that workers across sectors continue to bear the burden of sustaining the nation’s economy. “Today we stand together not just to mark a date on the calendar, but to collectively ease the tension accumulated on our various shop floors, sweating and turning the wheels that keep our economy going,” she stated.
Describing workers as the backbone of national development, she emphasized that the significance of May Day lies in its recognition of labour as the engine of progress.
According to her, “May Day is the day the world pauses to reflect and remember that nothing moves without the workforce.”
She highlighted the broad contributions of Nigerian workers, noting that from agriculture to technical trades and the public service, citizens continue to demonstrate resilience and patriotism in the face of economic and institutional challenges.
She added that workers within the Ministry of Police Affairs remain proud contributors to the growth and efficiency of the civil service.
Mrs. Agatha further commended the leadership of the Honourable Minister of Police Affairs, Dr. Senator Ibrahim Gaidam, and the Permanent Secretary, Dr. Ogbonnaya Anuma, for fostering what she described as a labour-friendly environment.
She noted that their commitment to staff welfare has helped create a more supportive and productive workplace.
While acknowledging these efforts, she stressed that more remains to be done to sustain morale and enhance productivity.
She called for continuous investment in workers through regular training and retraining, improved welfare packages, and better conditions of service.
She also identified key priorities necessary for a thriving workforce, including timely promotions, provision of adequate working tools, and the maintenance of a healthy and hygienic work environment.
According to her, strengthening mentorship structures and promoting innovation in labour-management relations would further enhance institutional performance.
“When workers are supported and empowered, they deliver better results and contribute meaningfully to national development,” she said, urging both government and institutional leaders to prioritize policies that protect and uplift workers.
The union leader underscored the importance of collaboration between labour unions and management, noting that sustained dialogue and mutual respect remain essential in addressing workplace concerns and preventing industrial unrest.
Amid prevailing economic realities, she encouraged workers not to lose hope, stressing that unity remains their greatest strength.
She urged members to remain committed to excellence while continuing to advocate for their rights and welfare.
Reiterating her message of solidarity, she concluded with the rallying call, “Aluta continua, Victoria ascerta… Solidarity forever!” a phrase that echoed across the gathering and symbolized the enduring spirit of the workforce.
Across Nigeria, Workers’ Day celebrations featured parades, speeches, and renewed demands for improved wages and better working conditions, as labour leaders called on government at all levels to implement reforms that address the needs of workers.
For members of the Ministry of Police Affairs union, the 2026 May Day celebration not only honoured their resilience but also reinforced a shared commitment to building a more responsive, inclusive, and worker-centered public service.
Also speaking, Iwajubu Oluwatosin, Chairman of the Association of Senior Civil Servants of Nigeria (Police Affairs Chapter), said Workers’ Day serves as an opportunity for employees to pause from their daily routines and celebrate their contributions to national development, noting that “all work and no play makes Jack a dull boy.”
He urged civil servants to remain dedicated, diligent, and committed to their duties as they go about their daily responsibilities.
Oluwatosin further called on the government to be more responsive to the concerns of workers, stressing the need for the timely payment of salaries, allowances, and other entitlements due to civil servants
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