The Director-General of the National Orientation Agency (NOA), Lanre Issa-Onilu, has paid tribute to Nigerian workers on the occasion of International Workers’ Day, describing them as the backbone of national development and critical drivers of the country’s progress.
Issa-Onilu said the annual observance provides an opportunity to reflect on the dignity of labour and the indispensable role workers play in nation-building.
He noted that the sacrifices of Nigerian workers across sectors continue to sustain the economy amid ongoing economic and social challenges.
The NOA chief commended the resilience, dedication, and commitment of workers in both the public and private sectors, emphasizing that their contributions remain central to Nigeria’s growth trajectory.
According to him, Nigeria is currently at a pivotal stage in its development journey, requiring increased productivity, discipline, and a collective commitment to excellence to achieve sustainable prosperity.
Issa-Onilu urged workers to rededicate themselves to core values such as hard work, integrity, and professionalism, stressing that these principles are essential not only for individual advancement but also for national development.
He reaffirmed the agency’s long-standing position that meaningful national transformation begins with a shift in mindset. He called on citizens to embrace a culture that rewards diligence, innovation, and accountability as pathways to progress.
The Director-General also cautioned against negative practices, urging Nigerians to reject indolence, corruption, and inefficiency, which he said continue to impede development and slow progress across critical sectors.
Issa-Onilu highlighted the Federal Government’s commitment to reform under its policy thrust, noting that ongoing efforts are aimed at improving workers’ welfare, strengthening institutions, and creating a more enabling environment for productivity.
He concluded by encouraging Nigerian workers to remain steadfast, patriotic, and committed to building a nation where labour is valued, opportunities are broadened, and prosperity is widely shared.
