Workers’ Day 2026: Calls for Reform, Recognition Dominate Lagos Event

Lagos State Governor, Babajide Olusola Sanwo-Olu was absent at the 2026 Workers’ Day celebration held at Mobolaji Johnson Arena, Onikan, with the event also recording a noticeably low turnout compared to previous years.

The governor was represented by his deputy, Kadri Obafemi Hamzat, who arrived at the venue around 11 a.m. and was received by workers in attendance.

This year’s May Day, observed globally as International Workers’ Day, is themed “Ensuring a Healthy Psychosocial Working Environment,” as set by the International Labour Organization. The theme focuses on addressing workplace stress, burnout, and mental health concerns while promoting workers’ dignity.

At the event, the Committee of GIG Workers’ Unions of Nigeria called for formal recognition and improved welfare for gig workers across the country.

The group, a coalition of 13 unions including the Nigerian Union of Good Delivery App Transporters and the Nigerian Union of Digital Personal Service Employees, said gig workers continue to face poor conditions.

“As we celebrate this year’s May Day, the fate of gig workers is nothing to write home about. We need proper recognition as workers under Nigerian labour law… We need the right to social protection and a pension,” the group stated.

Meanwhile, the Socialist Equality Party used the occasion to criticise Nigeria’s political landscape, describing it as unfavourable to the working class.

The party, aligned with the International Committee of the Fourth International, said Nigerian workers face limited political choices ahead of elections, arguing that major parties—including the All Progressives Congress and Peoples Democratic Party—do not adequately represent workers’ interests.

It also referenced former Labour Party presidential candidate Peter Obi, noting political realignments and calling for the formation of a workers’ party rooted in socialist ideals.

The party further disclosed that it is pursuing registration with the Independent National Electoral Commission, following its listing among political associations seeking recognition.