President Bola Tinubu has classified insecurity and poverty as national emergencies, warning that both issues are undermining employment, economic output, and the country’s stability.
The declaration was delivered on Friday at the 2026 Workers’ Day celebration held at Eagle Square in Abuja, where the President, represented by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, George Akume, addressed a large gathering of workers and labour leaders.
According to a statement issued by the SGF’s media aide, Yomi Odunuga, Tinubu stressed that a climate of fear and economic hardship makes sustainable job creation and growth impossible.
He acknowledged that insecurity and poverty continue to hinder national progress but assured Nigerians that his administration is confronting both challenges through coordinated and sustained measures.
“There cannot be decent work where workers fear for their lives, where wages cannot feed a family, or where insecurity disrupts farms, factories, markets, and other economic activities.
“These hydra-headed challenges, the government notes, have been treated as a national emergency due to their impact on productivity, livelihoods, and the confidence of both workers and employers.
The administration also acknowledged that insecurity and poverty remain major obstacles to building a peaceful Nigeria where citizens can sleep with their eyes closed, and to achieving the Decent Work Agenda as envisioned by the International Labour Organisation.
“The agenda is not merely an international framework but a national imperative, aligned with its vision of a country where hard work is rewarded, opportunities are accessible without discrimination, and every citizen can reach their full potential, ” he said.
Highlighting ongoing efforts, the President pointed to the Community Protection Guards Initiative, which has engaged 45,000 young Nigerians to boost grassroots security while also creating employment opportunities.
He also referenced key economic and social programmes under his Renewed Hope Agenda, noting that expanded cash transfer schemes now reach 15 million vulnerable households, with about 7.5 million Nigerians reportedly lifted out of poverty.
Tinubu further cited major infrastructure developments, including the Lagos-Calabar Coastal Highway and the Ajaokuta-Kaduna-Kano Gas Pipeline, which he said have collectively generated over 600,000 jobs across the country.
On labour welfare, the President listed measures such as the implementation of a new national minimum wage, the settlement of pension arrears, and the reintroduction of gratuity payments beginning January 2026.
He added that more than 800,000 workers in the informal sector have been brought into the micro pension scheme, while small businesses are benefiting from a N200 billion support fund for Micro, Small and Medium Enterprises.
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Reinforcing his position, Tinubu again described insecurity and poverty as “hydra-headed challenges,” emphasizing their far-reaching effects on livelihoods and investor confidence.
He said addressing them remains critical to achieving the Decent Work Agenda, which promotes fair wages, equal opportunities, and dignity in the workplace.
The President explained that the government is tackling poverty through a broad strategy that includes job creation, economic diversification, and social protection initiatives.
Among key interventions implemented between 2024 and 2026 are the National Agricultural Growth Scheme-Agro-pocket, dry season farming programmes, mechanisation efforts, improved post-harvest management, and expanded financial inclusion through the Bank of Agriculture.
He also noted the deployment of 10,000 Agro-Rangers by the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps across 19 states to safeguard farmers and agricultural investments.
Addressing organised labour groups such as the Nigeria Labour Congress and the Trade Union Congress of Nigeria, Tinubu urged continued dialogue in resolving disputes, cautioning against frequent industrial actions.
“Strike should be the last resort, not the first,” he said.
The President commended security agencies for their ongoing sacrifices in protecting the nation and reaffirmed his administration’s resolve to restore peace and economic stability.
He expressed confidence that Nigeria will overcome its current challenges, pledging to build a system where decent work is accessible to all.
“We are committed to improving working conditions, promoting fair wages and ensuring that every Nigerian worker enjoys dignity, safety and equal opportunity in the workplace,” he added.