By Victor Ahiuma-Young 

Today marks the first day of the new year, 2026, and as Nigeria steps into another economic cycle, the Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association, NECA, has outlined its priorities for the year, with a strong focus on industrial relations and labour harmony.

Less than 48 hours to the New Year, the umbrella body for employers in the country offered insights into its agenda, emphasising the need to strengthen existing labour institutions and ensure stability in employer–employee relations.

Speaking during an interaction with journalists, the Director-General of NECA, Adewale-Smatt Oyerinde, cautioned against actions capable of undermining established labour institutions, stressing that respect for due process remains critical to maintaining industrial harmony across the country.

He reaffirmed employers’ commitment to upholding the legal and institutional frameworks governing industrial relations in Nigeria, noting that adherence to established procedures is essential for sustainable economic growth and peaceful labour relations.

According to him, Nigeria’s economic progress in the new year will largely depend on the ability of all stakeholders to engage constructively, respect the rule of law, and resolve disputes through recognised institutions.

Oyerinde warned that bypassing these institutions could destabilise the labour system.

He identified the Industrial Arbitration Panel (IAP) and the National Industrial Court (NIC) as key pillars for dispute resolution, stressing that employers must submit themselves to these bodies regardless of personal or institutional sentiments. According to him, ignoring established frameworks would only breed chaos in the system, recalling past industrial disputes that were successfully resolved through recognised legal mechanisms.

Living wage 

On wage matters, the NECA Director General  stated that while the association supports the national minimum wage, the idea of a “living wage” remains a work in progress without clearly defined parameters. He noted that discussions on the subject are still ongoing at the International Labour Organisation, ILO, informing that a consensus was reached earlier in the year for the ILO to develop clearer guidelines.

“For now, there is agreement around the minimum wage, and we support wages that enable workers to cope with economic realities and injustice,” he said. 

He maintained that NECA aligns with the principles of decent work and adequate compensation.

However, he emphasised that wage sustainability must reflect employers’ capacity to pay. 

While acknowledging the impact of inflation and rising living costs on workers, he noted that employers are equally affected by high interest rates and increasing operating costs. According to him, NECA remains open to continuous engagement to achieve a wage structure that is realistic, appropriate, and sustainable.

Stakeholders’ engagement 

Oyerinde also highlighted recent legislative engagements, including amendments to the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund, NSITF, Act, noting that constructive dialogue with lawmakers helped align stakeholder interests. 

He disclosed that the association plans to establish policy working groups from 2026 to proactively address labour and economic issues before they escalate.

Looking ahead to the next minimum wage negotiations expected in 2027, he revealed that NECA has already commenced background engagements and plans to collaborate with the ILO on capacity building to ensure that all parties are adequately prepared for the discussions.

The Director General acknowledged that some state governors have increased minimum wages to between N100,000 and N130,000, attributing the increases to improved revenues from the federation account. 

Nevertheless, he argued that higher wages alone would not resolve workers’ challenges, urging government to focus on reducing the cost of living.

According to him, addressing critical social needs such as transportation, food, housing, education, and public health would significantly ease the financial burden on workers and make existing wages more impactful.

“When public transportation works, food is affordable, housing is accessible, and public schools and healthcare are functional, the average Nigerian worker will live better, even without constant wage debates,” he said.

The Director General DG reiterated the association’s support for decent wages and decent jobs, noting that NECA’s planned 2026 project on Responsible Business Conduct will underscore employers’ responsibilities to workers, government, and other stakeholders.