Nigerian workers have been asked to work towards a society where labour is valued, workers respected, and dignity upheld, as they are urged to keep hope alive even in the face of harsh economic situation of the times. The charge was given by Rev. Fr. Samuel Emeneogu, Chaplain, Young Christian Workers (YCW) Movement of Nigeria, Lagos Archdiocese while delivering the keynote address at the 2025 Workers’ Day celebration, organised by the YCW, held recently at the Holy Cross Cathedral and St. George’s Primary School, Falomo, Lagos. Speaking on the reality of the times, Fr. Emeneogu noted that the world of work is becoming increasingly difficult, adding that many young people today struggle with unemployment, underemployment, poor wages, and harsh working conditions.
He however, urged Young Christian Workers to remember that their labour is not just about survival; but a vocation, a calling to contribute meaningfully to society and glorify God through their work. He said as workers, they will face disappointments and setbacks, but their faith in God affords them the strength to endure and overcome. Among other things, he urged the Christian workers to stand together, supporting and encouraging one another. He added that in times of job loss, workplace injustice, or difficulty, they must uplift one another through prayer, networking, and practical support.
While delivering the homily at Mass, Rev. Fr. Louis Anyanwu, Assistant Chaplain, urged the workers to seek God and participate in the work of redemption like St. Joseph, adding that they live out the words of their slogan, and make a difference anywhere they find themselves. In his reflection, titled, “Hope in God in the time of adversity,” Rev. Fr. Wisdom Chikezie, the Guest Speaker said the workers must be strong in the Lord, and make sacrifices to triumph over every affliction confronting them. For her part, Maureen Ogamba, President YCW, Lagos Archdiocese, acknowledging the challenges workers face in their daily lives, urged them to celebrate the steadfast faith, unrelenting resilience, and unshakable hope that define them as workers.
She said the YCW Movement has always been a beacon of hope and inspiration for workers around the world, as she commended its commitment to empowering workers, promoting social justice, and advocating for workers’ rights. The high points of the event which saw the young workers walk from the Holy Cross Cathedral venue of the Mass to St. George’s Primary School, Catholic Church of the Assumption, Falomo, Lagos for the reception, included cultural display, march past among other fun-filled activities. Young Christian Workers Catholic Archdiocese of Lagos held its 2025 May Day activities beginning with Eucharistic Celebration at Holy Cross Cathedral Lagos, and Walk to Catholic Church of Assumption Falomo on May 1, 2025.
