By: Chinedu Echianu
As Nigeria marks International Workers’ Day 2026, calls are growing for urgent reforms to improve workers’ welfare, with a strong focus on gender equality.
Founder of the Vivian Bello Foundation, Vivian Bello, says Nigerian workers remain the backbone of the nation’s economy, despite rising economic pressure and social challenges.
In a solidarity message, she commended workers for their resilience but warned that systemic issues, especially those affecting women continue to undermine productivity and fairness in the workplace.
The foundation highlighted the critical role of women across key sectors, including agriculture, healthcare, education, business, and security.
It notes that many women also carry unpaid caregiving responsibilities, making their economic contributions even more significant.
However, it raises concerns over persistent inequalities, including wage gaps, workplace discrimination, unsafe conditions, and limited career advancement opportunities for women.
Bello stressed that closing these gaps is essential for national development, insisting that no society can achieve meaningful progress while sidelining half of its workforce.
In her word: “The time for action is now.”
The foundation urged policymakers, employers, and stakeholders to prioritise fair wages, safer working environments, and inclusive policies that protect as well as empower women.
It reaffirm its commitment to advocating for workers’ rights, noting that empowering women strengthens families, boosts productivity, and drives sustainable national growth.
