The Nigeria Union of Hawkers (NUH) seized the occasion of the 2025 International Hawkers’ Day to bring to the forefront the often-overlooked contributions of hawkers to the Nigerian economy and to advocate for improved working conditions and the protection of their rights. Themed “Empowering Street Entrepreneurs: Dignity, Rights, and Recognition,” the commemoration served as a platform for the NUH to underscore the vital role played by millions of Nigerians who engage in hawking as a means of livelihood. Comrade Babalola, the National President of the NUH, emphasized that hawking provides crucial economic sustenance for over 15 million individuals, many of whom are unemployed graduates or struggling families, enabling them to escape the clutches of poverty. He called upon both federal and state governments to acknowledge hawking as a legitimate form of entrepreneurship and implement policies that safeguard the rights and well-being of these informal sector workers.
Despite their significant economic contributions, hawkers in Nigeria face a myriad of challenges that impede their ability to earn a decent living and operate in a safe and dignified environment. These challenges include persistent extortion and harassment, the lack of legal recognition and protection, and unsafe working conditions. The NUH, committed to championing the cause of its members, pledged to continue its fight against these injustices and advocate for policies that foster inclusive development and uplift all Nigerians, particularly those toiling in the informal sector. The union specifically highlighted the growing problem of child hawking, recognizing it as a form of child labor that exposes vulnerable children to exploitation and insecurity. This concern underscores the urgent need for comprehensive measures to address the root causes of child labor and ensure that children are protected from such harmful practices.
The NUH has embarked on a series of initiatives aimed at improving the lives and working conditions of hawkers across the country. A key undertaking is the creation of a comprehensive database of hawkers, complete with proper identification details. This initiative not only helps to formalize the informal hawking sector but also provides a foundation for targeted interventions and support programs. Furthermore, the NUH has initiated programs to provide essential medical support, scholarships, and training opportunities to empower its members and enhance their entrepreneurial skills. These initiatives demonstrate the union’s commitment to not just advocating for hawkers’ rights, but also actively working towards tangible improvements in their lives.
The NUH is also developing regulatory guidelines for the hawking trade, seeking to establish a more structured and dignified operating environment. These guidelines are designed to deter child abuse and criminal activities while simultaneously transforming the trade into a more organized and socially beneficial enterprise. This forward-looking approach reflects the union’s understanding that sustainable improvements in the hawking sector require a multi-pronged strategy encompassing advocacy, capacity building, and regulatory frameworks. By working towards creating a more regulated and supportive environment, the NUH aims to enhance the legitimacy and sustainability of hawking as a viable livelihood option.
The NUH expressed its gratitude to the governors of Cross River, Anambra, Niger, Borno, Kano, and Ebonyi states for their ongoing financial and logistical support for hawkers within their respective states. This recognition highlighted the importance of collaboration between government and civil society organizations in addressing the needs of vulnerable populations. The NUH urged other state governors to follow suit and partner with the union to provide necessary infrastructure and ensure the safety and well-being of hawkers. This call for collaboration underscores the understanding that effective solutions require concerted efforts from all stakeholders.
The 2025 International Hawkers’ Day marked Nigeria’s first official celebration of this important event. The day serves as a global reminder of the significant contributions that hawkers make to the informal economy and local culture. It also provides an opportunity to advocate for the rights and well-being of this often-marginalized group. The NUH’s active participation in this event highlights its commitment to ensuring that the voices of Nigerian hawkers are heard and that their rights are protected. The commemoration serves as a springboard for continued efforts to improve the working conditions and lives of millions of Nigerians who rely on hawking for their livelihoods.
