The Director-General of the National Orientation Agency (NOA), Lanre Issa-Onilu, has commended Nigerian workers for their resilience, dedication, and contributions to national development.

In a statement issued on Friday to mark the 2026 Workers’ Day, Issa-Onilu described workers as the backbone of national growth and key drivers of Nigeria’s economic progress.

He said the annual celebration provides an opportunity to reflect on the dignity of labour and the essential role workers play in sustaining the economy despite prevailing social and economic challenges.

According to him, Nigeria is at a critical stage in its development journey and requires greater productivity, discipline, and commitment from citizens to achieve sustainable prosperity.

Issa-Onilu praised workers across both the public and private sectors for what he called their “resilience, dedication, and unwavering commitment” to nation-building.

He urged Nigerians to embrace hard work, integrity, and professionalism, stressing that these values are essential for both individual success and national advancement.

“True national transformation begins with a positive change in mindset,” he said, adding that citizens must adopt a culture that rewards diligence, innovation, and accountability.

The NOA director-general also called on Nigerians to reject corruption, inefficiency, and indolence, noting that such challenges continue to hinder development across key sectors.

He expressed optimism about the country’s future, stating that the Federal Government’s Renewed Hope Agenda is aimed at improving welfare, strengthening institutions, and creating a more productive environment.

Issa-Onilu further urged workers to remain patriotic and committed to building a nation where labour is respected and prosperity is more widely shared.