FG Declares May 1 Public Holiday

BY EDMOND ODOK, ABUJA – Despite the current nationwide lockdown occasioned by the coronavirus pandemic, the Federal Government says Friday, May 1, 2020 will still serve as a public holiday to mark this year’s International Workers’ Day Celebration.

Unlike the past years, the announcement, made on behalf of government by the Minister of Interior, Ogbeni Rauf Adesoji Aregbesola, was expectedly silent on the usual May Day carnival, speeches and parade by the Nigerian Workers

The Minister however used the opportunity to commend Nigerian workers for their resilience, patience and understanding at all times.

In a statement signed by Georgina Ehuriah, Permanent Secretary of the Ministry, Ogbeni Aregbesola thanked the workers for supporting President Muhammadu Buhari administration’s current efforts at stemming the spread of COVID-19 pandemic in the country.

He also thanked Nigerians and the Labour movement for their sacrifices in the current period of trial, saying their commitment and patience are complementing the efforts being made by the government and other stakeholders to ensure the speedy control of the virus nationwide.

The Minister said given the cooperation of every citizen as well as strict adherence to the measures put in place by relevant authorities, the challenges faced by Nigerians due to the virus outbreak would soon be a thing of the past.

Ogbeni Aregbesola also expressed the hope that the nation’s economy would rebound and become stronger post COVID-19 era, especially against the backdrop of government’s consciously driven economic stabilisation efforts.

The Minister therefore enjoined Nigerians to remain calm and be hopeful of a better future for the country