DIGNITY OF HUMAN LABOUR

International workers day is a day set aside to celebrate the welfare of workers all over the world. It is a day to reflect on the dignity of human labour. May 1st is International Labour Day. Most countries, including Nigeria, observe this day as a public holiday. The theme of this year's Labour day is "Uniting Workers for Social and Economic Advancement." It is believed that when the workers are united, not only to fight for their selfish interest, but for the common good they achieve a lot. 

The early Christians were united in their mission: "The whole group of believers were of one heart and soul, and no one claimed private ownership of any possessions, but everything they owned was held in common" (Acts 4:32). The early believers were not just united they also shared what they have in common. That is why they succeeded in their mission and this is exactly what is lacking in our society today!

Capitalism does not encourage such unity and sharing. It is an economic system that is geared towards excess profit making. The interest and welfare of workers are often neglected. Capitalism is also a system where the rich are getting richer whereas the poor are getting poorer. In an oppressive system like this, it is very difficult to get the workers united for social and economic advancement.

As we celebrate this year's Labour's day we wish to remind the government, and those concerned that worker/labourers deserve their wages (Luke 10:7). Last year President Buhari expressed shock when he realized how many months governors were owing their workers. He then asked, “How can anyone go to bed and sleep soundly when workers have not been paid their salaries for months.” This is the highest form of injustice!  The non-payment of workers' salary is a major cause of economic recession and hardship in Nigeria.

This notwithstanding, two  wrongs cannot make a right. Labour Day should not be reduced to a day when workers express their grievances or a day when they demand their rights. It should also be a day when workers should celebrate their achievement towards social and economic advancement. It should also be a day to encourage hard work by giving award and prizes to punctual and hardworking workers.  

 Finally, May I remind my fellow workers that there is dignity in labour. We should not just reduce labour to money venture. Work defines us as God's co-creators. There is a reward for every good work. As the Psalmist declares,  "By the labour of your hands you shall eat" (Psalm 128:2). As you work hard, you shall live to enjoy the fruit of your labour and it shall be well with you in Jesus name - Amen!