Workers are Nigeria’s greatest resource — not oil, says NBA president

Yakubu Maikyau, president of the Nigerian Bar Association (NBA), says workers are Nigeria’s greatest resource.

In a statement to commemorate the Workers’ Day celebration, Maikyau lauded the steadfastness of Nigerian workers “who keep the wheels of the country running”, in spite of our national challenges.

Maikyau called on the incoming administration to focus on policies that will promote the growth of SMEs, inclusiveness, and infrastructural development in the country.

“As we join the rest of the world in marking the 2023 International Workers’ Day, we are reminded that Nigerian workers, not oil, gold or other natural resources, are our greatest resource,” he said.

“Now, more than ever, deliberate steps must be taken to safeguard the socio-economic rights of workers.

“I, therefore, call on the incoming administration at the federal and state government levels, to initiate, reinvigorate, and focus on policies that promote inclusiveness, protect SMSEs, grow the middle class and prioritise infrastructural development.”

He also urged members of the legal profession to take advantage of the opportunities provided by the NBA employment bureau as the association works to resolve issues of workers’ remuneration.

“Within the legal profession, we are working to resolve the perennial challenges of employee remuneration, through the recommendations of the NBA remuneration committee,” he added.

“The proposed measures will bring respite to and improve the quality of living of our colleagues.”

He pledged the NBA’s commitment to championing the professional development of lawyers and ensuring that they are well-equipped to thrive locally and globally.