Joyce Onwuka
As Nigeria joins others to commemorate International Worker’s Day, Godman Akinlabi, Global Lead Pastor, The Elevation Church, has called for review of working conditions of workers.
While acknowledging and celebrating the dedication, hard work, and contributions of workers across the globe, despite the many challenges they face daily, he said concerted efforts should be made to improve workers welfare to enable them continue to make valuable contributions to the global economy and the sustenance of our society.
“The past year has been especially challenging for workers as the fallouts of the COVID-19 pandemic have highlighted and exacerbated existing issues such as low wages, unsafe working conditions, and lack of access to healthcare. Despite these challenges, they have persevered and continued to provide essential services that keep our world running. We owe them a debt of gratitude for their unwavering commitment to making our world a better place.
“As critical as workers are, many face significant challenges that hinder their ability to perform their duties effectively. Issues such as unsafe working conditions and inadequate healthcare can negatively impact their productivity and overall well-being. It is imperative that workers have access to safe working conditions, fair wages, and healthcare. When workers are valued and cared for, they are more productive, and our society and economy as a whole benefit. I urge governments and employers to prioritise the well-being of workers and make the workplace safer physically, mentally, and spiritually for them.” Akinlabi said.
In his May day, message he said, “We must also recognise that many workers face discrimination and inequality in the workplace. As people of faith, we believe that all workers are created equal and deserve to be treated with dignity and respect, regardless of their race, gender, or any other factor.
“I encourage young workers to never succumb to the pressure to amass material things by hook or crook but rather acquire relevant and marketable skills that improve their legitimate chances in the marketplace. The world is now flat. Tremendous job opportunities are opening up for workers on a global scale. I urge you to build the capacity to take advantage of these opportunities.”
The Pastor noted that at The Elevation Church, the Church provide workers with life-changing opportunities to hone their skills and access relevant knowledge that position them for greatness in their careers through its dynamic work environment, its countless workshops and seminars targeted at building extraordinary, integrity-driven workers for the global market and the training curriculum by the Pistis Life and Leadership Institute (PLLI).
“Even the economically challenged are not left out, our Pistis Empowerment Foundation(PEF) is dedicated to helping them in the areas of shelter, education, health, and more so that they are eventually able to stand on their own feet and contribute their quota to society.” he said.