The Nigerian government has called on the International Labour Organisation (ILO) for assistance in addressing critical labour market challenges, including unemployment, skills development, and integrating the informal sector into the formal economy.
The Minister of Labour and Employment, Alhaji Muhammadu Maigari Dingyadi, made this appeal while receiving ILO Director-General, Mr. Gilbert F. Houngbo, who is on a working visit to Nigeria. The visit underscores the strong partnership between Nigeria and the ILO.
Speaking on behalf of President Bola Ahmed Tinubu, the Minister reaffirmed Nigeria’s commitment to the ILO’s principles and its dedication to promoting decent work, social justice, and economic growth.
“Your visit is a testament to the strong and enduring relationship between the ILO and Nigeria. It also affirms our shared commitment to advancing decent work, social justice, and economic prosperity for all,” Dingyadi stated.
Nigeria, a member of the ILO since 1960, has ratified 44 ILO conventions, including nine of the ten fundamental conventions addressing core labour standards such as the elimination of forced labour, abolition of child labour, and workplace non-discrimination.
The Minister acknowledged the historic significance of Houngbo’s leadership as the first African to head the ILO, calling it “a milestone that reflects Africa’s growing role in global labour governance.”
On seeking the ILO’s expertise in strengthening social protection measures, enhancing occupational safety and health standards, and promoting gender equality in the workplace.
The Minister said, “Our government remains resolute in creating a business-friendly environment that supports sustainable enterprises, encourages decent work, and drives economic growth,” Dingyadi assured.
He emphasized the importance of social dialogue, commending NECA for fostering harmonious employer-employee relations. He also called for increased tripartite collaboration between the government, employers, and workers to “build a future of work that is inclusive, resilient, and sustainable.”
Beyond national labour concerns, the Minister urged the ILO to adopt democratic reforms in its governance structure to ensure equitable representation for all member states.
“In alignment with the African Group’s position, we earnestly request that you leverage your esteemed office to advance democratic reforms within the ILO Governing Body. These reforms are essential to reflect the diverse social and geographical interests of all continents and uphold fairness and equity,” Dingyadi stated.
Earlier in his remark, the Director-General of the International Labour Organization (ILO), Gilbert F. Houngbo, lauded the Nigerian government for its active engagement and commitment to promoting social justice. He highlighted Nigeria’s significant contributions and robust participation in ILO initiatives, reaffirming the country’s dedication to advancing fair labor practices.
Houngbo reiterated the ILO’s readiness to support member states like Nigeria in alignment with the organisation’s core principles. He expressed confidence that the Nigerian government would continue to uphold the values of social justice and fairness in its interactions with workers and employers.
As part of his visit, the ILO chief will engage with the organization’s tripartite constituents: government representatives, employers, and workers, as well as the United Nations Country Team (UNCT) and key development partners.
At the heart of his mission is the promotion of the Global Coalition for Social Justice, a groundbreaking initiative aimed at addressing social justice deficits and accelerating progress on the 2030 Agenda for Sustainable Development, the Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs), and the Decent Work Agenda.
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