ADDRESS BY THE SENIOR SPECIAL ASSISTANT TO THE PRESIDENT ON SPECIAL NEEDS AND EQUAL OPPORTUNITIES, HON. MOHAMMED ABBA ISA, ON THE OCCASION OF THE 2025 WORKERS DAY CELEBRATION
Fellow Nigerians, Esteemed Workers With Disabilities and Distinguished Guests,
Today, I join the entire nation in commemorating Workers Day, a day set aside globally to show solidarity with workers and to reflect on their struggles, victories, and aspirations. It is also a solemn moment to spotlight the unique and often overlooked challenges faced by workers with disabilities across our nation.
While Workers Day is a celebration of labour, it is also a powerful call to action, a reminder that true national progress is only possible when all workers, including Persons With Disabilities (PWDs), are treated with dignity, respect, and fairness in the workplace.
Far too often, workers with disabilities face harsh, tough, and discriminatory environments that hinder their full participation and productivity. Yet, despite these challenges, many continue to demonstrate unmatched resilience and continue to contribute meaningfully to our economy, our institutions, and our communities. Today, we salute your courage and unwavering spirit.
The administration of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu remains steadfast in its commitment to inclusive governance and decent work for all. As a government, we are determined to provide decent jobs for PWDs and to enforce reasonable accommodations that will make workplaces more accessible, safe, and enabling for all citizens, regardless of their abilities.
In line with the National Disability Act, we shall continue to demand the respect of the dignity, rights, and full inclusion of Persons With Disabilities in the labour force. The implementation of the 5% employment quota for PWDs is not just a policy, it is a constitutional obligation and a moral imperative. As the Senior Special Assistant to the President on Special Needs and Equal Opportunities, I reaffirm our collective resolve to uphold and advance this commitment.
In furtherance of the above, I have officially written to graciously request from the Federal Executive Council approval for a Special Pension Scheme for Federal Civil Service Persons With Disabilities Staff of the Federation across the board, in accordance with the ‘Renewed Hope Agenda’ for Persons with Disabilities’ inclusion in policies and projects of the Federal Government of Nigeria.
Additionally, I have requested for the approval of the Federal Executive Council for the extension of mandatory retirement for Persons With Disabilities staff of MDAs from 60 years to 65 years of age; and from 35 years to 40 years in service, whichever comes first. These measures are vital steps toward ensuring equity, dignity, and sustained contribution of PWDs in the federal workforce.
The Nigerian government recognizes the critical role that workers play in driving economic growth, sustaining industries, and building national resilience. It is on the shoulders of our workforce that the strength and future of our nation rests. Let us therefore ensure that no worker, especially none with a disability, is left behind in our march towards progress.
On this Workers Day, let us renew our pledge to uphold justice, fairness, and equal opportunity in every workplace. Let us build a Nigeria where ability, not disability, determines opportunity.
Happy Workers Day to all, and a special salute to the heroic workers with disabilities across Nigeria.
Thank you, and God bless the Federal Republic of Nigeria.
SIGNED
Hon. Mohammed Abba Isa, FIPMA, FCIPM, FOSHA, UN-GPD
SSA to the President on Special Needs and Equal Opportunities
