Workers’ Day 2025: A National Call to Integrity in Business, Accountability, and Ethical Leadership

By Dr Ohio O. Ojeagbase 

Lagos, Nigeria – As we celebrate Workers’ Day on May 1st, 2025, it is imperative to reflect on the pivotal role workers play in shaping our workplaces, marketplaces, and ultimately, the economic future of Nigeria. This year’s commemoration calls for a renewed commitment to integrity, responsibility, and excellence as foundational principles that can transform not just individual careers but also contribute to rebuilding our nation's economy.

In an era where trust and accountability are paramount, we urge every worker—whether in the private sector, public service, or informal markets—to embrace a culture of integrity in business. Here’s how:

1. Uphold Integrity in Financial Transactions

Fraudulent financial practices not only destroy individual reputations but also erode the trust that serves as the backbone of a thriving economy. When we borrow loans, it is not merely a legal obligation but a moral responsibility to repay every naira borrowed, along with the agreed interest, as this reflects our integrity and commitment. Honoring such financial commitments strengthens our credibility and sends a clear message of responsibility to lenders, investors, and business partners alike. Integrity in money matters lays the foundation for sustainable business relationships, fostering an environment where economic growth can flourish in Nigeria. Let us, therefore, commit to honesty, transparency, and discipline in every financial transaction, regardless of its size or complexity, as even small actions have far-reaching consequences. Many businesses have collapsed due to unethical practices, such as the issuance of dishonored cheques, which are not only irresponsible but also criminal in nature. By choosing ethical behavior over shortcuts, we can collectively rebuild trust, stabilize the economy, and ensure prosperity for future generations.

2. Respect Employers’ Time and Resources

Time is one of the most valuable assets in any organization, as it directly impacts efficiency, output, and overall success. Workers are encouraged to dedicate their working hours fully to assigned tasks, ensuring that their energy and focus remain aligned with organizational goals rather than diverting attention to personal ventures or side hustles. When employees respect and prioritize their professional responsibilities, they contribute to a culture of discipline and accountability that benefits everyone involved. This commitment to maximizing productivity not only enhances individual performance but also drives innovation and progress within the organization. Furthermore, by valuing company time, workers build trust with employers and position themselves for growth, recognition, and career advancement. A thriving workplace depends on mutual respect for time and effort, creating an environment where both individuals and organizations can flourish together. Ultimately, how we use our time reflects our dedication to excellence and our role in shaping the future of our workplaces.

3. Prioritize Health and Well-being

A healthy workforce is a productive workforce, as physical, mental, and emotional well-being directly influence performance and output. Workers should prioritize their health by adopting habits such as proper nutrition, regular exercise, adequate rest, and effective stress management to maintain peak condition. A balanced lifestyle not only boosts energy levels but also sharpens focus, enhances creativity, and builds resilience, enabling workers to tackle challenges with greater efficiency. When employees take care of their health, they are better equipped to meet the demands of their roles and contribute meaningfully to organizational success. Investing in personal well-being ultimately benefits both individuals and the workplace as a whole, fostering a culture of sustainability and high performance.

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4. Network with Positive Influences

The people you surround yourself with play a pivotal role in shaping your values, decisions, and ultimately, your career trajectory. Building networks with colleagues, mentors, and peers who uphold ethical standards and share your personal values creates a supportive environment for growth and integrity. Conversely, associating with individuals who encourage shortcuts, dishonesty, or unethical behavior can erode your principles and put your reputation and career at risk. Surrounding yourself with positive influences not only strengthens your character but also reinforces your commitment to professionalism and excellence. By choosing relationships wisely, you safeguard your future and align yourself with opportunities that reflect your true potential. "They say, 'Birds of the same feather flock together,' and there's truth in this adage. If those around you disregard loan agreements or habitually delay repaying borrowed funds, the likelihood of you adopting similar behavior increases—regardless of whether you're clergy, laity, or even embody both roles simultaneously."

5. Commit to Continuous Skill Development

To remain competitive and add significant value to their organizations, workers must prioritize continuous learning and skill development. This can be achieved through various avenues such as formal education, online courses, workshops, or even self-directed study, all of which contribute to personal and professional growth. By enhancing their expertise, workers not only improve their performance but also position themselves for new opportunities and career advancement. Skilled workers play a crucial role in driving innovation, increasing productivity, and fostering progress within their organizations and the nation at large. In an ever-evolving global economy, investing in knowledge and skills is not just a choice but a necessity for long-term success and relevance.

6. Build, Not Ruin Businesses

Every worker has a vital role to play in sustaining and growing the enterprises they serve, as their actions directly impact organizational success. Rather than resorting to cutthroat tactics that undermine others’ businesses, we should prioritize fostering win-win situations that benefit all parties involved. By supporting fair competition, respecting intellectual property rights, and championing ethical collaboration, we create an environment where trust and innovation can thrive. Such practices not only ensure the long-term prosperity of individuals and businesses but also contribute to a healthier, more sustainable economy. Ultimately, ethical conduct in the workplace sets the foundation for shared growth and lasting success.

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7. Upholding National Interest Amongst Public Servants and Leaders

Public servants, government workers, politicians, and other stakeholders in the public sector must also embrace this renewed hope agenda by prioritizing the nation's interest above personal gain. As custodians of public trust, they are called upon to lead with integrity, transparency, and accountability, ensuring that their actions reflect a commitment to national progress rather than self-enrichment. For those currently under investigation by agencies like the EFCC and ICPC, it is imperative that justice prevails—stolen assets must be returned without exception, irrespective of political affiliations or attempts to seek refuge in the ruling party. However, it is equally important not to victimize individuals based on unfounded fears or perceptions of their righteousness; fairness and due process must guide all actions. Celebrating agents of change who uphold ethical standards and contribute positively to society should be encouraged, not suppressed. By fostering an environment where merit, honesty, and service are rewarded, we can collectively dismantle corruption and build a future where every Nigerian can thrive with dignity and pride.

8. Be the Change Agents Our Nation Needs

Nigeria’s economic challenges are complex and multifaceted, requiring collective action and a shared sense of responsibility from every citizen. Each worker, regardless of their position or industry, has the power to make a meaningful difference by committing to higher standards of professionalism, integrity, and ethical conduct in their daily activities. By rising above mediocrity and rejecting negative trends such as corruption, laziness, or dishonesty, we can begin to dismantle the barriers that have long stifled progress and hindered national development.

Together, we hold the key to rebuilding our nation’s economy by embodying the values of honesty, diligence, and innovation in all that we do. These principles not only transform individual lives but also create a ripple effect that inspires others to follow suit, fostering an environment where businesses thrive, trust is restored, and communities prosper. On this Workers’ Day, let us honor the dignity of labor by recommitting ourselves to these timeless ideals, recognizing that even the smallest workplace decisions—whether it’s meeting a deadline, treating colleagues with respect, or upholding ethical standards—contribute to the larger narrative of Nigeria’s growth and transformation.

Let us pledge to live responsibly, managing our resources wisely and fulfilling our obligations with integrity. Let us work diligently, understanding that hard work is the foundation of personal and national success. And let us lead ethically, setting an example for future generations to emulate—not just for ourselves or our families, but for our organizations and our beloved Nigeria. In doing so, we can collectively build a brighter, more prosperous future for all.

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About KREENO CONSORTIUM

KREENO Consortium is an emerging recognized leader in Debt Recovery, Private Investigations, Criminal Prosecution, Asset Recovery, Cybersecurity, and Corporate Intelligence Services. Headquartered in Lagos, Nigeria, with a growing international footprint, KREENO combines cutting-edge technology, forensic expertise, and ethical practices to deliver world-class solutions to clients across industries. Driven by a mission to "restore what is lost, protect what is hidden, and enforce what is right," KREENO operates as a guardian of justice, prosperity, integrity-in-business and trust in high-risk markets. The firm’s triple-axis model—Debt Recovery with Diplomacy, Financial Crime Investigation, and Reputational Repair—ensures comprehensive support tailored to the unique needs of its clients.

With a commitment to innovation, KREENO leverages proprietary tools like the KREENO Intelligence Grid (KIG), an AI-powered platform for asset tracing and fraud detection, to stay ahead of evolving challenges. The consortium also prioritizes education through its Intelligence Academy , training the next generation of professionals in debt recovery and financial forensics. As a proudly African-founded entity with global ambitions, KREENO is dedicated to defending prosperity across continents while upholding its core values of truth, transparency, and excellence. By 2030, KREENO aims to be among the top five global leaders in its field, leaving an indelible mark on the future of finance and corporate governance. Truth. Trust. Triumph. That’s the KREENO Promise.

Through CAFFIA “We are advocates for workplaces and marketplaces integrity in business culture, and sustainable economic growth, committed to empowering Nigerian workers to achieve excellence.”

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Michael Anyangbeso
Editor-In-Chief Probitas Report
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