By Chimezie Godfrey
The Director-General of the National Orientation Agency, Lanre Issa-Onilu, has commended Nigerian workers for their resilience and unwavering contributions to national development, describing them as the backbone of the country’s economic and social progress.
In his message marking International Workers’ Day, Issa-Onilu said the annual celebration offers an important moment to reflect on the dignity of labour and the critical role workers play in sustaining the nation.
He noted that despite prevailing economic challenges, Nigerian workers across both public and private sectors have continued to demonstrate commitment and sacrifice in keeping the economy afloat.
“The occasion provides a valuable opportunity to reflect on the dignity of labour and the essential role workers play in nation-building,” he said, adding that their daily sacrifices remain vital to Nigeria’s stability and growth.
The NOA boss emphasised that Nigeria is currently at a crucial stage in its development trajectory, where achieving sustainable prosperity requires a renewed focus on productivity, discipline, and excellence.
According to him, national progress is closely tied to the collective work ethic of citizens, urging workers to rededicate themselves to core values that drive growth and development.
“I urge Nigerian workers to embrace hard work, integrity, and professionalism, as these values are not only essential for personal success but also for collective national advancement,” he stated.
Issa-Onilu further reiterated the agency’s long-standing position that meaningful national transformation begins with a shift in mindset, stressing the need for citizens to adopt values that promote accountability and innovation.
He called on Nigerians to reject indolence, corruption, and inefficiency, noting that these negative practices continue to hinder development and undermine institutional progress.
“We must collectively reject all forms of indolence, corruption, and inefficiency that slow down national progress,” he added.
The DG expressed optimism about Nigeria’s future, pointing to ongoing reforms under the Renewed Hope Agenda of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu aimed at improving worker welfare, strengthening institutions, and creating an enabling environment for productivity.
He urged workers to remain steadfast and patriotic in their service, noting that a prosperous Nigeria can only be achieved through sustained commitment and shared responsibility.
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