The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has expressed deep concern over the country’s continued poor ranking in global labour rights, calling it a national embarrassment.
Nigeria has again been listed among the world’s 10 worst countries for workers’ rights in the 2025 ITUC Global Rights Index.
Speaking at the 68th Annual General Meeting of the Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA) in Lagos, NLC President Joe Ajaero represented by Deputy President Adewale Adeyanju criticized the prevalence of labour violations, many of which he said occur in organizations represented at the meeting.
“This is a stain on our national conscience. It’s a legacy no one should accept,” Ajaero said, urging NECA members to lead by example in respecting labour laws and upholding collective bargaining rights.
He called for stronger collaboration between employers and labour unions, particularly in implementing resolutions from the recent 113th International Labour Conference in Geneva.
Ajaero emphasized the need to address the challenges of the growing platform economy and workplace safety, stating, “Declarations are not enough. We must turn commitments into realities.”
The NLC president also praised NECA Director-General Adewale-Smatt Oyerinde for fostering open dialogue. “We are not adversaries but partners with a shared purpose,” Ajaero said.
He urged NECA to support the domestication of new International Labour Organisation conventions, including those promoting decent work in the platform economy and improved biohazard protections.
Additionally, Ajaero reiterated the NLC’s call for a permanent joint committee with NECA to foster continuous dialogue, prevent disputes, and resolve conflicts. “This mechanism is no longer optional it’s essential for lasting industrial peace,” he stressed.
Ajaero also criticized ongoing attempts by some governors and lawmakers to remove labour from the Exclusive Legislative List, warning it could destabilize industrial relations. “These efforts reflect a dangerous misunderstanding of the consequences,” he warned.
The NLC president highlighted broader societal issues such as repression, insecurity, and economic exclusion that threaten labour rights. “A vibrant civic space is not a luxury; it’s vital for both businesses and workers to thrive,” he said.
Concluding his remarks, Ajaero reminded employers of the human element in enterprise. “Profit without people is hollow. Progress without justice is fleeting. That ‘redundant’ worker is also your customer,” he said.
He congratulated NECA on its 68th AGM and expressed optimism for more equitable, safe, and productive workplaces in Nigeria.
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