The Vice-Chancellor, Federal University Lokoja (FUL), Professor Olayemi Akinwumi has expressed profound appreciation to the staff of the University for their doggedness, commitment, and dedication to the vision of building a world-class University that they could be proud of in the not too distant future. 

Professor Akinwumi, who made this known in a goodwill message, released by the Public Relations Officer, Mr. Daniel Nwankwo, to mark this year's International Workers' Day Celebration, commended the University's workforce for their support, prayers, and cooperation in ensuring that the twelve-year-old Institution moves forward and evolves under his visionary and transformative leadership. He described the staff as building pillars and the greatest resources for actualizing his administration's five-year vision plan for the rapid development of the fast-growing citadel of learning.

International Labour Day, also known as May Day or International Workers' Day, is celebrated on 1st May every year to recognize the contributions of workers in society. The roots of this day are traced to the 1886 Haymarket Riot, which involved violence between the police and workers. Many countries celebrate it as a platform for workers to fight for their rights and improve their working conditions. The celebration is also an opportunity to honour the struggle and movement of workers seeking justice, equality, and fairness. 

Speaking further, the erudite Professor of history recognized the priceless contributions of the staff to the progress of the University and the advancement of education in Nigeria, despite the daunting challenges and setbacks caused by the industrial disputes experienced in Nigeria's Ivory Towers last year, assuring that their sacrifices and unwavering commitment to the development of FUL would not be in vain.

"On this special day of the year, I would like to congratulate all the University employees on the celebration of this year's Workers' Day and equally encourage all of us to increase our commitment and dedication to the service of nation-building through our impact on the lives of our dear students at both undergraduate and postgraduate levels. 

"Being fully aware of the difficulties we all have to pass through in rendering selfless services to our nation, let us therefore not be discouraged but hopeful and press on as we anticipate a better and more conducive working condition and experience in Nigeria. 

"I must also reiterate here that your willingness and devotion to a greater Federal University Lokoja constitute our success story! Also, while I desire and pursue to see improved staff welfare in our University, I want to urge us to reflect on our journey as a university and re-examine our commitment to delivering the mandates of our callings as teachers (Academic) and as administrators (Non-Academic), as we work together as partners in developing a university that we all can be proud of," the statement added.

Happy Labour Day!