By Johnbosco Agbakwuru

THE Federal Government, the organised labour and other relevant stakeholders on Thursday, validated the National Industrial Relations Policy, NIRP, which is aimed at ensuring industrial harmony between the government and labour.

Speaking at the occasion in Abuja, the Minister of Labour and Employment, Mr. Muhammadu Maigari Dangyadi noted that the whole essence of the policy was to nip in the bud possible industrial crisis and regulating the conduct of the actors in the industry in the country.

He said, “It is my pleasure to address this wonderful gathering of the critical Stakeholders in our labour space here today under the umbrella of cherishing our collective successful development of a National Industrial Relations Policy (NIRP) for our dear Country.

 “Fellow Comrades, you may wish to know that this has been a long journey that commenced years ago precisely 2018 aimed at nipping in the bud possible industrial crisis and regulating the conduct of the actors in the industry in our dear country.

“This NIRP was developed through extensive collaboration, guided by robust research work and experiences of labour experts so as to create a clear and coherent framework that will effectively balance the rights and responsibilities of all the employers, unions and government agencies in line with global practices.”

The Minister said that his ministry in collaboration with the Ministry of Justice will ensure that the policy document is forwarded to the appropriate government bodies for final legislative exercise as required by law.

 “Furthermore, it is worthy to note that the processes of drafting this policy went through a wide consultation involving social partners from across the six geo-political zones of the nation where inputs of relevant stakeholders were harvested culminating in the initial draft and then several other engagements leading to this final draft.

“Our gathering today therefore is to reaffirm our dedication to building a future embedded in mutual respect, trust and shared values in our attempt to ensure that all voices are heard and all concerns relating to industrial relations practice in Nigeria are captured.

“To those who contributed in one way or the other even financially like the International Labour Organization (ILO) accept my heartfelt gratitude. To the representatives of our tripartite who made out time at different times to attend and provided valuable inputs, recommendations, suggestions and observations namely; the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) and Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA), I say thank you and may the almighty God reward your efforts,” he said.

Dangyadi reiterated the core mandate of the the Ministry of Labour and Employment, which he said was maintenance of industrial peace and harmony in work places across the nation.

He said, “It is therefore my expectation that the development of this policy will further strengthen cordial relationship between my Ministry and the various labour unions as well as employers in our conduct of industrial relations practice,” he added. 

“To that end, I urge all of you to consciously defend those landmarks set by this policy and sustain them for the sake of posterity.

“Today, history has brought us here through a long winding trip that can only be defined by those who have been in the rigorous processes as a mission accomplished. It is now our turn to take the advantage of the contents of the policy by reading and also doing all that pertains to the policy as workers, employers and regulators in the interest of our nation.

“Finally, I make no mistake to say that we have by this policy etched Our names in gold by delivering a document that will not only serve as a reference but a compendium for resolving all labour related matters in this great country in line with global best practices.

“As you take your leave from this venue, please celebrate what you have accomplished and at the same time, look forward with an eye towards how you can further identify grey areas in view of new trends/dynamisms in the world of work.”

In a goodwill message, the Country Director of the International Labour Organisation, ILO, Vanessa Phala, said that the gathering marked a significant milestone in the joint efforts to foster harmonious and productive industrial relations in Nigeria.

The ILO Country Director said, “This workshop aims to validate the National Industrial Relations Policy, a comprehensive framework designed to address the evolving challenges in our labor market and to promote sustainable economic growth.

“Industrial relations play a pivotal role in shaping the economic and social landscape of any nation. Effective industrial relations policies contribute to economic stability, social justice, and the overall well-being of workers and employers alike. By fostering a climate of mutual respect and cooperation, we can ensure that both employees and employers thrive.

In an increasingly globalized world, it is imperative that national policies align with international labor standards and best practices. This ensures that Nigeria remains competitive and attractive to both domestic and foreign investments.”

Continuing, Phala said: “The National Industrial Relations policy emphasizes the importance of social dialogue as a means to resolve conflicts and build consensus among stakeholders.

“This includes regular consultations and negotiations between the government, employers, and trade unions. Social dialogue is not just a tool for conflict resolution but a cornerstone for building trust and cooperation.

“Ensuring the protection of workers’ rights is at the core of this policy. This includes fair wages, safe working conditions, and the right to collective bargaining. We must also address issues such as gender equality, non-discrimination, and the protection of vulnerable workers.”

She further added that the policy outlines strategies to enhance productivity and competitiveness in the labor market.

She also assured that the ILO remained committed to supporting Nigeria in its journey towards achieving decent work for all.