FG reaffirms commitment to strengthen collaboration with ILO

The Federal Government has reaffirmed its commitment to strengthening collaboration with the International Labour Organisation (ILO).

Mr Muhammadu Dingyadi, Minister of Labour and Employment, made this statement during a courtesy visit by the ILO’s Director-General to his office in Abuja on Wednesday.

Dingyadi highlighted that the ongoing partnership with the ILO had contributed to promoting labour rights, creating employment, ensuring workplace equity, and shaping policies that protect workers’ rights, promote safe and productive workplaces, and foster industrial harmony.

He further emphasised that Nigeria was eager to deepen its partnership with the ILO, particularly in advancing social protection measures, enhancing occupational safety and health standards, and promoting gender equality in the workplace.

“We also seek to deepen our collaboration in the implementation of ILO conventions, many of which Nigeria has ratified and remains committed to upholding.

“As you engage with various stakeholders during this visit, I am confident that your discussions will further consolidate our mutual efforts in tackling pressing labour market challenges.

“This includes particularly addressing youth unemployment, skills development, and the integration of the informal sector,”Dingyadi stated.

He expressed confidence that the visit would reinforce cooperation between the ILO and Nigeria, leading to impactful outcomes for the workforce and the economy.

He also referenced the ILO Centenary Declaration for the Future of Work, which emphasised the need for democratic participation and equal representation of all member states in the governance of the ILO.

Earlier, Mr Gilbert Houngbo, Director-General of the ILO, remarked that his visit to Nigeria was long overdue.

He stressed the importance of Nigeria’s role in the ILO’s governance and its vital partnership with the organisation.

“I am here to convey the importance the ILO attaches to Nigeria and its partnership. I want to listen to you on our cooperation and how we can improve it.

“I am very interested in various issues under the ILO’s mandate, including social dialogue, occupational health and safety, and more.

“I know the Nigerian government has made significant decisions over the past two years, and I am keen to see how these have impacted the labour market,” Houngbo stated.

He acknowledged the global crises that have affected the cost of living and inflation, which have forced governments worldwide to adapt.

Houngbo also emphasised that the ILO’s core conventions include the fight against child labour, forced labour, modern slavery, and discrimination issues of great concern to the organisation.

“My visit to Abuja is a working session, and I look forward to learning concrete lessons and receiving advice from the government, workers, and employers,” he added.