The Senator representing Kwara State Central, Saliu Mustapha, has called on Nigerian workers to embrace dialogue and cooperation as the country continues its economic recovery efforts.
In his message marking Workers’ Day, Mustapha urged labour unions to prioritise constructive engagement with the government of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, saying that industrial harmony is key to sustaining national development.
He noted that while workers’ concerns are valid and must be taken seriously, disputes are better resolved through negotiation rather than industrial action.
“Strikes should be a last resort. Constructive engagement remains the most effective path to resolving disputes and sustaining national progress,” he said.
Mustapha stressed that a stable and motivated workforce is essential for economic growth, adding that both federal and state governments must continue to improve welfare conditions through practical policies.
He also commended AbdulRahman AbdulRazaq for what he described as consistent efforts in ensuring prompt salary payments and maintaining a stable working environment in Kwara State.
Beyond advocacy, the senator highlighted some of his personal interventions aimed at supporting workers and vulnerable families. These include scholarship programmes targeted at children of members of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC), covering education from admission through to graduation.
He also mentioned agricultural support initiatives, including the distribution of tractors, fertilisers, and processing equipment to farmers, which he said are designed to boost productivity and ease economic pressure on households.
According to him, these efforts reflect a broader commitment to improving livelihoods and strengthening economic resilience.
While congratulating workers across Kwara State and Nigeria, Mustapha urged organised labour to remain focused on realistic demands while continuing to defend workers’ rights responsibly.
“Nigeria’s progress depends on cooperation, not confrontation,” he said. “Government and workers must work together to achieve lasting solutions.”
