The federal government has declared Thursday, May 1, a public holiday.
The Nigerian federal government has announced a public holiday for Thursday, May 1, to commemorate Workers’ Day.
Olubunmi Tunji-Ojo, the Minister of Interior, announced the public holiday on behalf of the federal government. He reiterated the importance of peace to promote economic growth and industrialization in the country.
In a statement by Magdalene Ajani, the ministry’s permanent secretary, on Tuesday night, April 29, the minister commended Nigerian workers for their sacrifices and diligence.
He added that the efforts of the workers were responsible for the country’s greatness and the respect that Nigeria commanded among the comity of nations.
The minister of the federal government said that the dignity of labourers, their dedication and commitment to the work they do are important to nation-building. He then urged the workers to imbibe the innovation and productivity culture.
The minister of the federal government encouraged workers to elevate their skills to drive better governance and ensure that all Nigerians benefit maximally from the nation’s wealth. He assured citizens and foreigners alike that President Bola Tinubu’s administration prioritized the security of life and property. Wishing workers a joyful celebration, Tunji-Ojo urged Nigerians to remain hopeful, emphasizing President Tinubu’s commitment to the Renewed Hope Agenda.
This came barely two weeks after the federal government declared a two-day public holiday for the celebration of Good Friday and Easter Monday, which was celebrated earlier this month. HR expert shares how to boost staff morale As Nigeria is set to mark Workers’ Day with a public holiday, Talent Management Specialist Olawale Owolabi told Legit.ng that employee appreciation should go beyond simply giving staff time off.
“There are meaningful ways to show appreciation to employees beyond a day off work. Some staff even like to be in the office every day, provided they are within a conducive work environment,” Owolabi said. Clarifying that a conducive environment is not just about office aesthetics or infrastructure, he said: “It deals with the work culture and the inclusivity in the organization.” On how to make appreciation more personal and lasting, he said: “Employees love when they are given public recognition. Don’t just say ‘well done’ at a town hall meeting , instead, say why their contribution mattered, how it impacted the team, and acknowledge the individual, not just the task.”
He gave a practical example: “If someone stayed late to help a teammate hit a deadline, recognise the spirit of collaboration and selflessness, not just the result. When people feel seen and appreciated for who they are, and not just what they do, that’s lasting appreciation.”
Drawing from his experience as a People and Culture Partner, Owolabi also emphasized the power of inclusive leadership. “Involving employees in decision-making can significantly boost employee morale. It is also an act of instigating an ownership mindset in them,” he said. “Employees want to grow, and this leadership act might seem small, but giving them a voice in everyday decisions — like how meetings are run, what tools they use, or how tasks are assigned — can boost morale. It tells employees that they matter and their input counts.”
The federal government minster concluded with an example of a former manager who improved team morale by replacing long meetings with 15-minute check-ins and an online update board, boosting engagement and energy through inclusive decision-making.
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