Nigeria Needs Better Labour Policies for Economic Growth – NECA

Nigeria Needs Better Labour Policies for Economic Growth – NECA

The Nigeria Employers Consultative Association (NECA) has appealed to the government to reform and strengthen its labour policies, aiming to attract investments, foster regional trade, and ultimately achieve economic stability.

The Director-General of the Nigeria Employers Consultative Association, Adewale Smatt-Oyerinde made the remarks at the organisation’s forum held on Thursday in Abuja.

“Employers and employees are partners in progress. We need policies that encourage productivity while protecting workers’ rights. A balanced labour ecosystem will drive national development,” Oyerinde said.

In his remarks at the event, the Minister of Labour and Employment, Muhammadu Dingyadi, assured stakeholders of the government’s commitment to fostering a balanced work environment.

“The government remains resolute in promoting industrial harmony through proactive engagement. We will continue to foster an environment where both employers and employees thrive,” Dingyadi stated.

Also speaking, the Chairman of the House Committee on Labour, Adegboyega Adefarati, stressed the need to harmonise labour laws to reflect evolving workplace demands.

“Industrial harmony is essential for economic progress. Our labour laws must align with current realities to foster sustainable employment relationships,” Adefarati said.

The House of Representatives member further noted that the House is working to strengthen legislative frameworks that promote fairness, job security, and economic stability.

On his part, the Chairman of the Senate Committee on Labour, Senator Diket Plang, reaffirmed the National Assembly’s commitment to updating labour laws in line with international best practices.

Also speaking, the President of the Nigeria Labour Congress, Joe Ajaero, described the government’s approval of the General Education Act as a welcome development noting that it is a step toward enhancing child education. Ajaero, however, raised concerns about the implementation of the new N70,000 minimum wage.

Speaking at the occasion, Director-General of the International Labour Organisation, Gilbert Houngbo, commended the government’s decision to increase the national minimum wage from N30,000 to N70,000, emphasising the need for enforcement.