The Speaker of the House of Representatives Rep. Femi Gbajabiamila has congratulated the Nigerian workers for marking this year’s International Workers’ Day. Gbajabiamila said although the day is being marked quietly across the globe as a result of the lockdown necessitated by the COVID-19 pandemic, there is much to remember about the sacrifices made by Nigerian workers. Gbajabiamila, in a statement marking the Workers’ Day signed by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Lanre Lasisi, commended Nigerian workers for their commitment and dedication to work over the years, which he said has shaped the country tremendously. The Speaker, however, called on Nigerian workers to be more productive now and always, saying no matter what was achieved before now must be sustained and improved upon. “I want to salute the courage of Nigerian workers, who have over the years given their best to their work. Indeed Nigeria and Nigerians are proud of you. “I urge the Nigerian workers to redouble their efforts at this time of our national development. They must continue to put in their best in the work that they do for the betterment of the country,” Gbajabiamila said.

The Federal Government on Thursday directed officers on Grade Level 14 and above as well as those on essential services to resume work with effect from Monday, May 4.

Dr Folasade Yemi–Esan, Head of Civil Service of the Federation (HOCSF), gave the directive in a statement signed by Mrs Olawunmi Ogunmosunle, Director of Information, Office of the HOCSF.

The directive, according to Yemi-Esan, in furtherance to President Muhammadu Buhari’s broadcast on a phased and gradual easing of the lockdown measures occasioned by COVID-19.

According to the directive, offices are to work three times a week, namely Monday, Wednesday, and Friday and close at 2:00 p.m. on each day.

“The concerned officers are to ensure full compliance with the directives and advice on the prevention of the COVID-19 pandemic.

“These measures include maintenance of social distancing, regular washing and/or sanitizing of hands and wearing of face masks.

“Officers are to limit the number of visitors they receive to the barest minimum, they should also ensure that the visitors comply with safety and health advice/ directives,” Yemi-Esan said.

HOCSF also advised Permanent Secretaries and Chief Executive Officers to ensure that handwashing and sanitation facilities are placed at entrances and strategic points in their Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs).

“Infrared thermometers are to be provided at the entrance of the MDAs for compulsory temperature checks while, as much as practicable, the entrance to the MDAs is limited to only one.

“It will be noted that the Federal Secretariat Complexes have been decontaminated while efforts are ongoing to do the same in other public offices,” she said.