FG declares May 1 public holiday for Workers’ Day celebration 

The Federal Government has declared Friday, May 1, 2026, a public holiday to mark this year’s International Workers’ Day, in recognition of the contributions of Nigerian workers to national development.

The announcement was made by Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, Minister of Interior,  on behalf of the federal government.

In a statement issued on Wednesday by Magdalene Ajani, Permanent Secretary of the ministry,  the minister congratulated workers across the country and commended their resilience, dedication, and commitment to duty.

According to the statement, the annual Workers’ Day celebration provides an opportunity for the government to acknowledge the critical role of the workforce in driving economic growth and sustaining national prosperity.

Tunji-Ojo noted that the efforts of Nigerian workers remain indispensable to the country’s development aspirations, urging them to continue to uphold the values of patriotism, productivity, and professionalism in their various fields.

“The Federal Government has declared Friday, 1st May 2026, a public holiday to celebrate this year’s International Workers’ Day.

“The Minister congratulates workers across the country and commends them for their hard work and dedication to national development, noting that their efforts are essential for the nation’s growth and prosperity”, the statement read.

The minister also reiterated the Federal Government’s commitment to improving workers’ welfare, enhancing workplace security, and creating an enabling environment for economic expansion and job creation.

He further urged Nigerians to use the occasion not only for celebration but also for reflection on the importance of unity, diligence, and collective responsibility in nation-building.

He called on citizens to remain peaceful and law-abiding during the holiday.

International Workers’ Day, celebrated annually on May 1, honours the contributions of workers and the labour movement globally, while highlighting the need to safeguard labour rights and promote inclusive development.