The Tukur Yusuf Buratai Humanity Care Foundation has called for better working conditions and social protection for Nigerian workers.
Social protection consists of policies and programmes designed to reduce poverty and vulnerability by promoting efficient labour markets, diminishing people’s exposure to risks, and enhancing their capacity to manage economic and social risks, such as unemployment, exclusion, sickness, disability and old age.
In a message released in Kaduna to mark Workers’ Day yesterday, the national coordinator of the foundation, Mr Ibrahim Danfulani, said better working conditions and social protection for workers, irrespective of their ministries, departments and agencies (MDAs) or educational qualification, would enhance productivity. He said it would translate to having better economy and stability of livelihood.
Danfulani said the day, set aside to celebrate the hard work and sacrifices of workers all over the world, should serve as an opportunity to reflect on workers’ contributions to the growth and development of the society.
“As we celebrate this day, it is important to recognise the challenges that workers face, particularly in Nigeria. Many workers in our country are faced with low wages, poor working conditions and limited access to social protection,” he lamented.
According to him, the challenges being faced by workers are exacerbated by the COVID-19 pandemic, adding that it has had a significant impact on the global economy and disproportionately affected workers in low-income countries like Nigeria.
The national coordinator expressed the foundation’s commitment to supporting workers and their families, particularly the most vulnerable ones.
“We believe that access to quality healthcare, education, and social protection is essential for all workers, regardless of their sector or employment status,” he said.
He called on employers, government officials and civil society organisations to work together in addressing the challenges facing workers in Nigeria. He also urged stakeholders to prioritise the welfare and well-being of workers, and to take concrete steps in improving their working conditions, to reduce poverty and promote social inclusion.
