Nigerians bore the pains in 2025-MWUN’s Bunu demands action not promised in 2026
Maureen Aguta
The President-General of the Maritime Workers’ Union of Nigeria (MWUN), Comrade Francis Bunu Abi, has congratulated Nigerians on the New Year, commending their resilience and endurance in the face of severe socio-economic challenges that defined 2025.
In a New Year message released on Wednesday, the labour leader praised Nigerians for what he described as their uncommon strength, perseverance and faith, noting that despite insecurity, unemployment, rising cost of living and soaring transportation fares, citizens remained steadfast and hopeful.
Bunu said the survival of Nigerians through the outgoing year was a testament to their character and collective resolve, stressing that the country’s citizens had once again demonstrated why they are regarded as some of the strongest people in the world.
“Against all odds, Nigerians stood firm and weathered the storms of hardship, insecurity and economic pressure. Their resilience, patience, discipline and hope have continued to be the driving force that keeps the nation afloat in difficult times,” he said.
Describing Nigerians as naturally resilient and forward-looking, the MWUN President-General noted that history has shown that even in periods of turmoil and uncertainty, the people have always drawn strength from their positive attributes and unwavering belief in a better tomorrow.
He urged Nigerians not to lose faith in the country, expressing optimism that the sacrifices and sufferings endured in 2025 would translate into joy, progress and personal success for citizens in the New Year.
Bunu, however, challenged the Federal Government to urgently address the growing hardship faced by Nigerians, insisting that the much-touted “Renewed Hope Agenda” of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu must begin to reflect tangibly in the daily lives of citizens as the nation enters 2026.
According to him, Nigerians have borne immense pain and deprivation over the years and deserve concrete relief in the form of improved security, job creation, affordable transportation and a lower cost of living.
“Our people have suffered enough. The Renewed Hope Agenda must go beyond promises and begin to deliver real, visible relief to Nigerians. This is the only way the tears, sacrifices and endurance of the people can be justified,” he said.
The labour leader also cautioned the government against taking Nigerians for granted, warning that their ability to survive harsh conditions should not be mistaken for indifference or acceptance of prolonged hardship.
On a final note, Bunu called for national unity and collective responsibility, reminding citizens that Nigeria remains their only home and must be preserved and improved through shared effort.
“We have no other country but Nigeria. We must work together to make it better for ourselves and future generations. With peace, unity and faith, we can overcome our fears and build a nation where all can live with dignity,” he said.
He wished Nigerians a prosperous and fulfilling New Year, expressing hope that 2026 would usher in improved living conditions, renewed optimism and a better quality of life for all.