2026 May Day: EAPEAN Felicitates Nigerian Workers, Celebrates Resilience of Private Employment Agency Workforce

By Our Reporter

The Employers Association for Private Employment Agencies of Nigeria (EAPEAN) has joined millions of Nigerians and organizations across the country in celebrating workers on the occasion of the 2026 International Workers’ Day, commending their resilience, dedication, and indispensable contributions to national development.

In a statement issued to mark the annual celebration, EAPEAN paid special tribute to workers within the private employment agencies (PEAs) ecosystem, recognizing their critical role in driving productivity, facilitating job creation, and sustaining key sectors of the Nigerian economy.

The 2026 May Day celebration, themed around workers’ rights, socio-economic justice, and improved welfare, comes at a time when many Nigerian workers continue to navigate economic challenges. EAPEAN noted that the theme underscores the urgent need for policies and practices that promote decent work, fair remuneration, and social protection for all categories of workers.

The Association applauded Nigerian workers for their unwavering commitment to duty, even in the face of evolving workplace dynamics and economic pressures. It particularly highlighted the contributions of outsourced and contract workers engaged through private employment agencies, describing them as “a vital backbone of service delivery across industries.”

EAPEAN reaffirmed its commitment to promoting international best practices in labour recruitment and employment standards. The Association emphasized the importance of strengthening regulatory frameworks, enhancing worker protections, and fostering collaboration between government, employers, and labour representatives.

“As an organization committed to advancing decent work and ethical recruitment, we celebrate the Nigerian worker—especially those within the private employment agency space, whose daily efforts sustain businesses and power economic growth,” the statement read.

EAPEAN also called on employers to continue prioritizing the welfare of their workforce, while urging workers to remain steadfast, productive, and patriotic in their service to the nation.

The statement was signed by the Executive Secretary, Jide Afolabi, on behalf of the EAPEAN President, Amb. Chief Nzeribe Okegbue, PhD.

The Association concluded by reiterating its support for initiatives that promote inclusive growth, job security, and improved working conditions, expressing optimism that sustained collaboration among stakeholders will yield a more equitable and prosperous labour environment in Nigeria.

International Workers’ Day, celebrated annually on May 1, provides an opportunity to honour the contributions of workers and to advocate for improved labour standards and social justice worldwide.