WIKE CELEBRATES WORKERS, HIGHLIGHTS REFORMS AT 2026 MAY DAY EVENT IN ABUJA
By: Rabi Musa Umar and Tony Odey
The Minister of the Federal Capital Territory (FCT), Nyesom Wike, has commended Nigerian workers for their resilience and contributions to national development, while outlining key reforms and achievements of the FCT Administration.
The Minister, was represented at the occasion by the FCT Head of Civil Service, Mrs Nancy Sebanti Nathan, gave the charge during the 2026 May Day Celebration held at Eagle Square, Abuja, on Friday, May 1st, 2026.
Addressing a large gathering of workers, Wike described International Workers’ Day as a historic symbol of struggle, dignity, and solidarity, emphasizing that no nation can progress without the dedication of its workforce.
He linked the 2026 theme, “Insecurity, Poverty – Bane of Decent Work,” to the need for collective action in addressing the country’s socio-economic challenges.
The minister paid tribute to workers across sectors, including teachers, healthcare professionals, engineers, farmers, and civil servants, noting that their efforts remain the backbone of governance and economic growth.
“The nation works because you work, acknowledging the sacrifices many workers make under difficult conditions.” he said.
Wike revealed that the FCT Administration oversees over 30,000 staff across critical sectors and reaffirmed its commitment to improving their welfare and professional development.
He highlighted the 2024 establishment of the FCT Civil Service Commission as a major reform that has expanded career progression opportunities, allowing directors to rise to top administrative positions.
According to him, the administration has resolved several long-standing labour issues, including the payment of outstanding allowances, arrears owed to health workers, and 22 months of rural allowances.
He also disclosed that an eight-month backlog of pension remittances had been cleared.
In the education sector, Wike said decisive interventions have helped prevent disruptions caused by teachers’ strikes, stressing that primary education remains a priority.
He added that improvements have also been made in the judiciary, including the construction of residences for judges, new accommodation projects at the Nigerian Law School, and the digitization of court processes to improve efficiency.
On workforce management, the minister noted that promotions are now conducted through transparent, merit-based computer testing.
Adding that more than 3,500 workers were promoted between January and March 2026, while over 1,600 staff had their appointments confirmed after years of delay.
While highlighting these achievements, Wike urged workers to reciprocate government efforts with discipline, integrity, and commitment to duty.
He cautioned against absenteeism, corruption, and poor work ethics, stressing that such practices undermine public service delivery and workplace well-being.
Barr Wike also encouraged dialogue over industrial action, stating that strikes should be a last resort. “Productivity must match our new welfare packages,” he said, urging workers to protect public assets and support one another’s mental health.
The minister further noted ongoing infrastructure development across the FCT, including road projects aimed at improving connectivity in satellite towns and rural communities, adding that development must be inclusive without compromising workers’ welfare.
Wike commended President Bola Ahmed Tinubu for supporting reforms under the Renewed Hope Agenda, particularly policies aimed at improving workers’ welfare. These include enhanced retirement benefits, increased allowances, and the introduction of an Employee Compensation Scheme.
He concluded by reaffirming the administration’s commitment to collaborating with labour unions and ensuring the dignity and prosperity of workers in the FCT.
Abuja Digest reports that the 2026 May Day celebration brought together workers from both the public and private sectors to mark the annual event and reflect on labour-related issues in Nigeria.
