Employers and experts call for urgent labour law reforms in Nigeria
The Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA) and the International Labour and Arbitration Forum recently held a high-level dialogue focused on improving access to labour justice. The event brought together key stakeholders from the judiciary, legislature, executive, security agencies, organised labour, academia, and the diplomatic community. Prominent figures such as Ministro Lelio Bentes Corrêa, Ifeanyi Okoye, and Didi Esther Walson-Jack highlighted the need for modern, enforceable labour laws and efficient dispute resolution systems. Calls were made for stronger institutions, clearer laws, and better enforcement to ensure fair and timely labour justice for all workers and employers in Nigeria.
TLDR
- Ministro Lelio Bentes Corrêa stressed that labour justice systems must evolve to keep pace with digitalisation, platform work, and new employment forms.
- Ifeanyi Okoye, NECA President, emphasised the importance of prevention, compliance, and dialogue in reducing workplace conflicts.
- The National Assembly, represented by Senator Diket Plang, is reviewing labour laws to address gaps and reflect current workplace realities.
- Security and legislative leaders linked access to labour justice with national stability, economic competitiveness, and social peace.
- Stakeholders agreed on the urgent need for stronger institutions, better enforcement, and deeper social dialogue to support both enterprise sustainability and worker protection.
