May 1st, recognized globally as International Workers’ Day, is not only a celebration of the victories of labor movements but also a sobering reminder of the struggles that many workers continue to face—especially in economies like Nigeria’s, where inflation, stagnant wages, and rising costs of living significantly affect daily well-being. A Brief Historical Context Workers’ Day has its roots in the late 19th-century labor movement, particularly the struggle for the 8-hour workday, which originated from protests and labor actions in the U.S. around May 1, 1886. Over time, May 1st became an international symbol of worker solidarity and rights. In Nigeria, Workers’ Day was first officially recognized in 1981 under the administration of President Shehu Shagari. Since then, it has served as a platform to celebrate labor contributions and to demand better working conditions. But in recent years, the celebration has grown more muted. Many Nigerian workers now view the day as a brief re...
🕊️ Cardinal Peter Turkson and the Health Dimensions of Papal Leadership (A thoughtful look at health, aging, and the future of the Catholic Church)
🩺 Health and Age in Church Leadership While theological depth, spiritual leadership, and global diplomacy are central to choosing a new pope, health and age are often quiet factors influencing the decision. With most cardinals eligible for papal election being over 70, the health status of candidates becomes critical —not just for longevity, but for their ability to handle the physical, emotional, and global demands of the papacy. Cardinal Peter Turkson , now 76, is frequently discussed as a possible successor to Pope Francis. Though no public record details any major health issue, his decision to resign as head of a major Vatican department in 2021 sparked conversations about internal politics and possible fatigue—though he publicly cited the end of his term as the reason. 🌍 A Voice for Health and Humanity Turkson has long been a champion of global health and social justice . He’s spoken boldly on: Universal health coverage Equity in vaccine access The moral duty...