In a promising development, Nigeria’s Labour Minister, Simon Bako Lalong, has pledged unwavering commitment to forge a deeper alliance with the International Labour Organisation (ILO). This pledge comes with a promise to bolster workers’ welfare and uphold the dignity of labor, in accordance with the conventions to which Nigeria is a signatory.
The Minister made this commitment during a courtesy visit from ILO Country Director Vanessa Phala at the Ministry’s Abuja headquarters. The meeting aimed to solidify cooperation and celebrate the collaboration that has significantly improved Nigeria’s work environment over the years, fostering productivity and engagement among its citizens.
Minister Lalong expressed his readiness to elevate the relationship with the ILO to new heights under President Bola Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda. He further assured the ILO team that Nigeria would diligently work on implementing all ratified protocols, instilling confidence both domestically and on the international stage.
Vanessa Phala, the ILO Country Director overseeing Ghana, Sierra Leone, Liberia, and ECOWAS, lauded Nigeria for its up-to-date reporting system, a noteworthy accomplishment. She reaffirmed the ILO’s steadfast commitment to assist Nigeria in achieving its National Employment Policy goals, eradicating child and forced labor, and addressing various critical labor issues.
Phala urged the Minister to prioritize job creation, enterprise development, social protection, and the establishment of the National Labour Advisory Council. These measures would facilitate dialogue and minimize industrial disputes, ushering in a more harmonious labor landscape.
This collaboration highlights Nigeria’s dedication to enhancing labor rights and ensuring the well-being of its workforce. With a renewed commitment to ILO conventions, Nigeria is set to create a more favorable environment for its workers and uphold labor dignity on a global scale.
In addition to these commitments, Minister Lalong and Vanessa Phala discussed potential joint initiatives aimed at addressing emerging labor challenges in Nigeria. These include strategies to promote decent work, improve occupational health and safety standards, and enhance skills development for the Nigerian workforce.
Furthermore, the Minister acknowledged the critical role played by the ILO in capacity-building and partnerships that have contributed to a more productive and engaging work environment in Nigeria. He expressed gratitude for the ILO’s continued support over the years and stressed the importance of maintaining a strong and collaborative relationship.
As Nigeria moves forward with its Renewed Hope Agenda, it is evident that the Ministry of Labour and Employment is fully committed to working hand in hand with international organizations like the ILO to create a brighter future for the nation’s workforce.
Source: [News Dot Africa]
