Members of the Nigeria Union of Hawkers (NUH) come together as one united body dedicated to the promotion of labor and industrial relations activities that would improve the welfare of its members and promote solidarity, peace, equity and justice, resist oppressive practices and policies operating within the jurisdiction of Nigeria.
To a certain extent, the prevalence of hawking across the country represents the economic conditions of Nigeria; particularly in the employment sector. It is also symbolic of the hustle and entrepreneurial spirit embedded in the people in the areas of food, drink, material, and other non consumable items.
Hawking is the most visible form of informal economic activities across developing countries. It may account for as much as 70% of urban employment in Nigeria, and it has become the source of livelihood for many Nigerians unable to secure white-collar jobs.
The National President of the Union, Comrade Prof. Olumuyiwa Babalola said it yesterday in Abuja during an Easter program.
He also said, “Let us rise up to develop the sector and protect the good image of hawkers in Nigeria as we are preparing to mark the upcoming International Hawkers’ Day,” which is observed annually on May 26th. It is a day for hawkers to raise awareness about their rights, challenges, and contributions to the economy. On this day, organizations across the world organize events and activities to highlight the issues faced by hawkers.
The day also serves as a platform to discuss the need for comprehensive policies and regulations to protect hawkers and ensure their livelihoods and pledging our continuing struggle against eviction, extortion, and neoliberal policies.
Preparations are under way to observe the word hawkers day in a memorable way bcos it is going to be the first of its kind in Nigeria.
Hawkers often sell traditional or locally made products, preserving cultural heritage and culinary traditions. They play a vital role in keeping cultural practices alive by offering authentic and culturally significant goods to both residents and visitors
They also play an essential role in creating jobs for those who do not have access to formal employment, thereby helping to reduce unemployment rates and improve the economic welfare of families.
They have been trying to keep the streets clean and safe for their customers and provide them with friendly personal service. They also create jobs, not only for themselves but for others.
The street hawker is important in the community. They offer goods at low prices. Poor people can afford these and build trust with customers.
Hawkers operate as informal sectors in developing countries and are neglected in terms of planning and implementation of policies.
The central and local governments have not played their role in developing hawkers and contributing to economic development, we request for the best practices to the Hawkers, contribution to economic development and finding out the best methodology to support hawkers financially.
President said, “