The Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment marked a significant milestone last week in Abuja as stakeholders validated the Draft National Industrial Relations Policy (NIRP).
The policy aims to address industrial disputes, enhance worker-employer relations, and align Nigeria with global labour standards.
Minister of Labour and Employment, Alhaji Muhammadu Dingyadi, represented by the director overseeing the Office of the Permanent Secretary, Mr. John Nyamali, emphasised the draft’s importance. “This journey, which commenced years ago, is a testament to our commitment to resolving industrial crises and regulating industry conduct through collaborative and research-driven efforts,” he noted.
The draft policy, developed through consultations spanning Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones, seeks to balance the rights and responsibilities of employers, unions, and government agencies. “We aim to create a framework that ensures mutual respect, trust, and shared values among stakeholders,” Dingyadi added, acknowledging the contributions of the Tripartite Technical Working Group and international partners such as the International Labour Organization (ILO).
Addressing the gathering, ILO Country Director Ms. Vanessa Phala highlighted the policy’s alignment with global labour standards. “Effective industrial relations policies contribute to economic stability, social justice, and the overall well-being of workers and employers alike,” she said. Phala stressed the importance of integrating global economic trends, technological advancements, and demographic shifts into Nigeria’s labour market strategy.
The policy underscores social dialogue as a key conflict resolution mechanism, fostering trust among government, employers, and trade unions. “Ensuring workers’ rights, such as fair wages and safe working conditions, alongside addressing issues like gender equality and non-discrimination, remains at the policy’s core,” Phala stated. She also noted provisions for small enterprises, including simplified regulations and capacity-building support.
Trade Union Congress (TUC) First Deputy President, Dr. Tommy Etim-Okon, described the policy as a “rescue document” for workers. However, he warned against the common challenge of non-implementation. “We need proper sensitisation and a robust communication strategy to ensure this policy is not another shelved document,” he advised, advocating for a one-year gestation period for effective awareness creation.
Dr. Etim-Okon also called for stakeholder collaboration to align the policy with the government’s Renewed Hope Agenda. “A policy not rooted in solid foundations will falter. The skills of workers, economic conditions, and environmental factors must align to achieve productivity and competitiveness,” he said, reaffirming TUC’s commitment to partnering for the policy’s success.
Acknowledging the broader implications, the policy seeks to mitigate strikes, define roles, and promote international best practices in industrial relations. It also focuses on formal mechanisms for dispute resolution and enhancing labour standards compliance for large enterprises while supporting informal workers and small businesses in integrating into the formal economy.
In her remarks, Phala pledged ILO’s unwavering support for Nigeria’s journey toward decent work for all. She reiterated the policy’s potential to attract both domestic and foreign investments by fostering a stable labour environment.
Minister Dingyadi expressed optimism that the NIRP would strengthen relationships between the Labour Ministry, unions, and employers, promoting harmony in industrial relations. He also commended the contributions of Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), TUC, and Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA).
The workshop concluded with stakeholders unanimously endorsing the draft policy. The Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment, in collaboration with the Ministry of Justice, is set to forward the document for legislative approval.
“The NIRP is not just a document; it’s a vision for a better industrial relations future for Nigeria,” Dingyadi concluded. As stakeholders await its implementation, the hope is for a transformative impact on Nigeria’s labour landscape.
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