The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has renewed its call for justice, equity, and protection of workers’ rights as the nation joins the global community to commemorate Decent Work Day.
In a statement released in Abuja, NLC President Joe Ajaero emphasized the urgent need to uphold the dignity of labour and end systemic exploitation in workplaces across Nigeria.
Ajaero described the observance as a moment to reflect on the state of employment and to demand accountability from both public institutions and private employers.
He urged stakeholders to embrace the four foundational pillars of decent work—job creation, social protection, rights at work, and social dialogue—as outlined by international labour standards.
“The principles of decent work are being eroded by government agencies and private corporations alike,” Ajaero stated. “This undermines our national goals of industrialisation and economic diversification.”
He warned that no country can achieve sustainable development while suppressing workers’ rights and fostering inequality. Ajaero also addressed the ongoing labour dispute involving the Dangote Group, accusing the company of violating employees’ freedom of association and disregarding union rights.
“No employer is above the law,” he said, commending the Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) for standing firm in defense of its members. He criticized attempts to label union activities as sabotage, calling such narratives dangerous and misleading.
Ajaero urged the government to remain impartial and prioritize the protection of workers rather than siding with powerful corporate interests. He called for the strict enforcement of labour laws and an end to what he termed the “sacred cow syndrome,” where certain entities operate without accountability.
“The protection of vulnerable workers must be a national priority,” he concluded, reaffirming the NLC’s commitment to advocating for fair treatment, safe working conditions, and inclusive economic policies.
