Informal workers to enjoy better working conditions as Senate passes regulation bill**

From Adesuwa Tsan, Abuja

Millions of Nigerian informal workers will soon enjoy fair wages, proper contracts, regulated recruitment and safeguards against abuse, following the Senate’s passage of the Informal Sector Employment Regulation Bill, 2025, for third reading.

The lawmakers had earlier considered the report of the Committee on Employment, Labour and Productivity presented by its chairman, Diket Plang, and adopted its recommendations.

Plang explained that the bill introduces a framework that will give informal workers clearer rights and protections.

He explained, “This legislation is about giving dignity and security to those who have largely operated outside the formal labour system.

“Domestic workers, interns, apprentices, and others in informal employment will now have enforceable rights that protect them from exploitation.”

In his remarks, Senate Whip, Tahir Monguno, added, “The philosophical cornerstone behind this law is to regulate employment conditions in a sector that has been left unmonitored for too long. Workers will finally have clarity on their roles, fair pay, and protection from abuse.”

Under the new law, informal employees will benefit from clear contracts outlining the terms of employment, regulated recruitment processes, fair working conditions, and legal recourse for workplace abuses, protections that were previously unavailable.

The bill now awaits concurrence from the House of Representatives before being sent to the President for assent.