Abuja: The Federal Government has assured the organised labour of the benefits of the new National Industrial Relations Policy (NIRP), recently approved by the Federal Executive Council (FEC). The Minister of Labour and Employment, Mr Muhammad Dingyadi, gave the assurance while speaking with newsmen in Abuja. Dingyadi was reacting to the rejection of the new policy by the organised labour.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, the new policy will bring numerous benefits to Nigeria, such as improved industrial harmony, enhanced productivity, and protection of workers’ rights. ‘The policy is the culmination of several engagements of government, represented by the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment, organised labour, represented by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC), and employers, represented by the Nigeria Employers Consultative Association (NECA). These engagements spanned nearly seven years, and the final draft of the NIPR policy was validated by the stakeholders in December 2024.
Dingyadi highlighted that the benefits of the policy to Nigeria include improved industrial harmony by reducing industrial disputes and promoting stable labour relations nationwide, leading to more predictable, peaceful, and structured labour relations across sectors. He said it would ensure smooth workplace operations and strengthen tripartite cooperation between the government, employers, and workers.
He added that the policy is projected to boost productivity and strengthen investor confidence in Nigeria’s labour environment. The policy will align Nigeria’s industrial relations practices with global benchmarks, particularly those of the International Labour Organisation (ILO), making the country more competitive and attractive to domestic and foreign investments.
Dingyadi further noted that the policy would lead to enhanced social dialogue, emphasising its importance in resolving conflicts and building consensus among stakeholders. This includes regular consultations and negotiations between the government, employers, and trade unions.
He asserted that the NIRP ensures the protection of workers’ rights, including fair wages, safe working conditions, and the right to collective bargaining, while also addressing issues like gender equality and non-discrimination. The policy serves as a reference point for labour laws, union engagement, and conflict resolution in both public and private sectors, promoting more effective labour relations.
