Nigeria must lead by example in inclusive labour practices – ILO DG
By Ukpono Ukpong
The Director General of the International Labour Organisation (ILO), Mr. Gilbert Houngbo, has emphasized that Nigeria, as Africa’s largest economy, must lead by example in developing inclusive and sustainable labour practices.
Houngbo made this call during his familiarisation tour to Nigeria, where he engaged with key labour stakeholders to discuss the importance of social dialogue in fostering economic transformation.
He stressed that Nigeria’s leadership in fair wages, social protection, and technological adaptation would set a precedent for other developing nations.
The ILO chief noted that embracing inclusive labour practices would help Nigeria address challenges such as digitalisation, climate change, and the lingering effects of COVID-19, which continue to impact workers and businesses across the region.
During his visit, the ILO boss met with Vice President Kashim Shettima, the Minister of Labour and Employment, Muhammad Dingyadi, the Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), and the Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC), among others.
Speaking on the need for structured dialogue, Houngbo stated, “Social dialogue must drive human-centred economic transformation, including technological transformation, ensuring job creation aligns with fair wages, social protection, and sustainable practices.”
He highlighted some of the challenges that continue to affect global economies, particularly in Africa, including the lingering effects of COVID-19, climate change, and rapid digitalisation.
“For West Africa, the challenges are acute, with cases of displacements due to conflicts, floods, and economic activities,” he observed.
According to him, Nigeria, as the largest economy and most populous nation in the region, bears the additional responsibility of addressing climate-induced flooding and migration concerns.
“As Africa’s largest economy, Nigeria has a responsibility to lead by example in developing inclusive and sustainable labour practices,” he added.
Despite these challenges, Houngbo commended the Nigerian government for demonstrating a clear commitment to prioritising social justice and fairness in its dealings with workers and employers.
He assured that the ILO would continue to support member states like Nigeria that uphold the organisation’s core principles and commitments to fair labour practices.
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Welcoming the ILO Director General, Minister of Labour and Employment, Muhammad Dingyadi, described the visit as a reflection of the strong and enduring relationship between the ILO and Nigeria.
He reiterated Nigeria’s dedication to strengthening its partnership with the ILO, particularly in the areas of social protection, workplace safety, and gender equality.
Dingyadi also urged the ILO to implement democratic reforms within its Governing Body to better reflect the diverse social and geographical interests of all regions.
“We are honoured to host you, and we look forward to continued partnership in building a just and equitable world of work,” he stated.
On her part, the Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, highlighted Nigeria’s efforts to address employment challenges, skills development, and workplace rights in alignment with its national priorities and international obligations.
This visit marks Houngbo’s second official trip to Nigeria. His first visit was on October 18, 2022, when he sought Nigeria’s support for his election as ILO Director General. Now, as the first African to hold the position in the ILO’s 100-year history, Houngbo returns as the organisation’s substantive leader, reinforcing his commitment to strengthening labour policies across the continent.
