Nigeria has reiterated its dedication to upholding human rights, including labour rights, while striving for improved working conditions and increased income. The country’s pledge was made at the 111th session of the International Labour Conference (ILC) currently taking place in Geneva.
Daju Kachollom, the Permanent Secretary of Nigeria’s Ministry of Labour and Employment, expressed concern over the escalating challenges of inequality, the soaring cost of living, climate change, geopolitical instability, and the mounting debt burden faced by developing nations.
Kachollom emphasized the significance of the National Labour Advisory Council (NLAC), Nigeria’s primary tripartite institution for labour and employment administration matters. The council, revived in 2021, includes representatives from all 36 states of the federation, fostering a diverse range of ideas to bolster Nigeria’s commitment to labour rights.
He further disclosed that Nigeria is in the advanced stages of initiating the necessary procedures for ratifying ILO Convention No. 102 on Social Security (Minimum Standards), thereby increasing the number of ratified ILO Conventions to 45.
“Our focus extends to several intervention programs for social assistance and social protection, ensuring that the gains made prior to the COVID-19 pandemic are not eroded and mitigating the impact of emerging global challenges,” Kachollom stated.
Promoting full, productive, and freely chosen employment remains a paramount concern in Nigeria’s national agenda, as it aligns with the country’s National Development Plan. The government is committed to lifting 100 million Nigerians out of poverty by 2030, with the National Development Plan (2021-2025) aiming to generate 21 million full-time jobs and lift 35 million people out of poverty by 2025.
Recognizing that injustice and persistent inequality impede sustainable development, Nigeria has revised its National Policy on Occupational Safety and Health to strengthen government interventions in this area. Additionally, the country is updating its Future of Work Report to align with the ILO Centenary Declaration, the Abidjan Declaration, and the amended Fundamental Principles and Rights at Work.
“Nigeria’s pledge underscores our commitment to building an inclusive democratic state and a just society. We place utmost priority on human rights, including labour rights, the enhancement of decent work and real income, the improvement of social protection systems, and the promotion of gender equality while maximizing the potential of our young population,” Kachollom concluded.
Nigeria’s reassurance at the International Labour Conference signals its determination to prioritize the welfare of its citizens, promote equitable and safe working conditions, and foster sustainable development.
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