Labour rights safe under new industrial policy, FG insists

By Kunle Sanni

The Federal Government has moved to address concerns raised by organised labour over the recently approved National Industrial Relations Policy (NIRP) 2025, assuring that the initiative will strengthen workers’ rights and improve industrial harmony.

Minister of Labour and Employment, Muhammad Maigari Dingyadi, gave the assurance on Friday following reports of resistance from the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC), who fear the policy could be used to criminalise strikes and weaken trade unions.

Dingyadi stressed that the policy was the outcome of nearly seven years of consultations involving the ministry, labour unions, and employers represented by the Nigeria Employers Consultative Association (NECA). He said the final draft was validated by all stakeholders in December 2024.

According to the minister, the NIRP is designed to reduce industrial disputes, promote stable labour relations, and foster cooperation between government, employers, and workers.

He noted that the framework is expected to boost productivity, enhance investor confidence, and align Nigeria’s industrial relations practices with global standards, including those of the International Labour Organization (ILO).

“The NIRP ensures the protection of workers’ rights, including fair wages, safe working conditions, and the right to collective bargaining, while also addressing gender equality and non-discrimination,” Dingyadi said.

The minister added that the policy would serve as a reference point for labour laws, union engagement, and conflict resolution in both the public and private sectors.

The Federal Executive Council approved the NIRP last week as part of ongoing efforts to modernise the country’s labour framework and attract investment.