Dominic Nwobodo & Cos-lewisa Osigbemhe
It is widely acknowledged that workers are a crucial component of any society, and their hard work deserves recognition and appreciation. The pride they take in their labour accompanied by the wages they earn serves as a source of joy and contentment. The government recognizes the importance of workers and is responsible for providing them with basic amenities such as housing and social facilities, which, in turn, motivates them to be more productive.
In addition to these basic needs, several other factors can motivate workers and help create a more just and equitable society. Unfortunately, the current reality is far from ideal. Workers in Nigeria face unprecedented hardships, including neglect, abandonment, and low wages, leaving many feeling vulnerable and demoralized.
In the past, workers were provided with housing, but today, only a few can access such benefits. Most workers now live with relatives, while others struggle to renew their rents. The typical Nigerian worker is now defined by vulnerability, evident in their propensity towards corruption, greed and wickedness.
Corruption is most significant in the civil service as of recent time, where workers are fighting for survival and thus prone to grabbing what they can have while in service. Greed is also a challenge, as some well-to-do workers are unwilling to empower or guide their subordinates through the challenges they faced and overcame. This mentality overlooks the saying that “those empowered today become the strength of tomorrow”.
The NLC must intensify efforts to advocate for workers’ rights and work with the government to create an environment that promotes fairness, justice and equality for all workers. Nigerian worker’s deserve a better treatment, and it is high time all stakeholders work together to create that better future.
The work environment, a place supposed to be a ground of productivity and positivity has unfortunately become hell for some due to inhumane treatment by their employers. The ideal standard of a work environment goes down the drain every minute because of this vices. The current state of the service is not encouraging; it is hostile, older workers act with the intent that there is no need for the younger ones using coded words, expressions, one-on-one conversation on several encounters. Some hold onto their positions with utmost supremacy. They lazy around the workplace and rightly work when they is something personal to gain.
Workers are suffering. This on several occasion has lead to increase in the negative attitude displayed by them, with the likes of, love for money, compromise, and a toxic environment. It becomes worse and harder for the few workers who stand for what is right, as they are often sidelined, while sycophants get ahead. Some workers have retired without their benefits, reducing them to beggars. With an end this gruesome, government jobs becomes unattractive to the masses.
Civil servants have become accomplices to politicians, perpetuating corruption and those intending to follow that same path. Ethically, the custodians of documents and information should not be involved in corrupt practices and so the government and the Nigeria Labour Congress must collaborate to ensure workers are well-compensated and given a good life, ensuring a Better Nigeria.
Workers must shun corruption, greed, wickedness and hostility, as these traits will only lead to their downfall and that of the nation. They must be creative and avoid relying on outdated stereotypes. An Idle minds is the devil’s workshop. Workers should be productive and share knowledge with those interested in learning and growing.
As the Nigeria Labour Congress fights to win the battle for better worker’s pay and address long-standing issues concerning the workforce, it must also redirect its focus to sanitize Nigerian workers, instilling in them endearing virtues for productivity and to stand against oppression.
