The Forum of South-East Academic Doctors (FOSAD) joins millions of Nigerians and the global community in commemorating this year’s International Workers’ Day, a moment set aside to recognize the invaluable contributions of workers to national development and societal progress.
On this important occasion, FOSAD expresses deep concern over the worsening conditions faced by Nigerian workers across all sectors. For years, workers in Nigeria have endured poor wages, rising inflation, and economic policies that have steadily eroded their purchasing power. These challenges are not incidental—they are the direct consequences of prolonged governance failures and policy inconsistencies.
Today, the average Nigerian worker is trapped in a cycle of hardship. With a high unemployment rate and limited economic opportunities, those who are employed are left to survive on paltry salaries that are grossly inadequate in the face of a severely devalued naira. Basic necessities such as food, housing, transportation, and healthcare have become increasingly unaffordable, placing immense strain on workers and their families.
FOSAD observes with concern that the current economic structure appears to perpetuate systemic poverty among workers. The promise of democracy, which should guarantee shared prosperity and improved living standards, has instead widened the gap between political elites and the working class. While political office holders continue to amass wealth, the majority of Nigerian workers are sinking deeper into poverty.
Particularly troubling is the mass migration of skilled professionals, including those in the health and academic sectors, who are leaving the country in search of better opportunities abroad. This brain drain is not only a reflection of deteriorating working conditions but also a serious threat to Nigeria’s future development. A nation that cannot retain its intellectual and professional workforce risks long-term stagnation.
The situation has reached a critical point where even highly educated professionals, such as university lecturers, struggle to afford basic assets like personal vehicles. This reality underscores the depth of economic distress and the urgent need for comprehensive reforms.
In light of these challenges, FOSAD calls on governments at all levels—federal, state, and local—to take immediate and decisive steps to improve workers’ welfare. This includes implementing fair wage structures, stabilizing the economy, addressing inflation, and enacting policies that genuinely reflect the needs and aspirations of the working population.
Furthermore, FOSAD urges Nigerian workers to become more actively engaged in advocating for their rights. Sustainable change will require collective action and a firm resolve to challenge the entrenched systems that have perpetuated inequality and hardship.
As we mark this year’s International Workers’ Day, FOSAD stands in solidarity with all hardworking Nigerians. Your resilience and dedication remain the backbone of the nation.
Happy Workers’ Day to all Nigerian workers. Your labour must not be in vain.
Signed:
Dr Stephen Nwala
President
Forum of South-East Academic Doctors (FOSAD)
Dr Uzor Ngoladi Secretary General Forum of South-East Academic Doctors (FOSAD)
