The Nigerian federal government has responded to a complaint filed by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) at the International Labour Organisation (ILO). The complaint, filed at the last International Labour Conference in Geneva, alleged violations of the Right to Organise and Collective Bargaining Convention, 1949 (No. 98). According to the NLC, workers in Nigeria face persistent violations, and trade union leaders are threatened, assaulted, intimidated, and victimised.
The Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment, Dr. Kamil Shoretire, disclosed that Nigeria has met the September 1 deadline given by the ILO to address outstanding issues raised by labour. He explained that the government responded to the request from ILO after a complaint was filed by the NLC against the Nigerian government on some labour issues that are yet to be resolved in the country.
Dr. Shoretire noted that it is normal for labour unions to take disputes to the ILO when they feel a government is not responsive. As a member, Nigeria is expected to respond to such complaints. He added that certain areas were not addressed or were pending, but the government has responded accordingly to meet the ILO deadline.
The government is currently engaged in collective bargaining negotiations with various sectors, including health and education, on proposals for a new minimum wage for workers. Although a timetable for fresh negotiations has not been announced, background discussions are already ongoing. The government plans to fast-track these discussions to reflect in next year's budget.
Dr. Shoretire also assured that the wage award still exists and that the government has not ordered its stoppage. Additionally, he disclosed that the government will announce additional incentives for workers and citizens in the coming weeks. The ministry supports skills development through apprenticeship programmes and training centres, and the National Directorate of Employment (NDE) invests heavily in building artisanal skills.
The NLC had asked the ILO Committee to find Nigeria in breach of Articles 1, 2, and 4 of Convention No. 98. In response, Dr. Shoretire urged labour reporters to report with accuracy, fairness, and objectivity. He made this call during a training workshop for Labour Correspondents in Abuja, where he also highlighted the government's efforts to address labour issues.
The government's response to the NLC's petition and its efforts to engage in collective bargaining negotiations demonstrate its commitment to resolving labour issues in Nigeria. The announcement of incentives for workers and citizens is expected to ease tensions and promote a better working environment. Key discussions between the government and labour unions will continue to shape the future of labour relations in Nigeria.
Key points
- The Nigerian government has responded to the NLC's petition to the ILO and is engaged in collective bargaining negotiations for a new minimum wage.
- The government has met the ILO deadline to address outstanding labour issues and will announce additional incentives for workers and citizens soon.
- The NLC had alleged persistent violations of workers' rights and victimisation of trade union leaders in Nigeria.
