Labour leader Comrade Anthony Emmanuel Nted, former Vice President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), says his October 1 birthday, which coincides with Nigeria’s Independence Day, now leaves him with deep regret.
“I am happy I was born on October 1, but I am not happy I share the birthday with Nigeria. While I am moving forward, the country is going backward,” he declared at 65.
Nted, who rose from carrying loads in Rivers State’s riverine communities to becoming President-General of the Maritime Workers’ Union of Nigeria (MWUN), lashed out at leaders for worsening hardship.
“Every day I get 200 calls asking for food. People are dying of starvation. Things were better before, but today Nigerians can’t eat. Reforms are not feeding the people,” he said.
He warned President Bola Tinubu against constant blame-shifting.
“If you know you cannot manage, don’t accept leadership. Stop blaming the past. Nigerians are tired of excuses. Do the job or quit.”
Turning his fire on corruption and churches, Nted added, “Billions are being stolen daily, yet nothing happens. Pastors are buying jets while people are hungry. It is wrong.”
On the youth, he was scathing: “The future belongs to the youth, but many sell their votes for a token and destroy their tomorrow.”
At 65, while grateful for his personal journey, Nted insists Nigeria must change course: “Leadership is about love, kindness, and humility. That is the only way forward.”
