From Adanna Nnamani, Abuja
President Bola Ahmed Tinubu has reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to improving the welfare of Nigerian workers and ensuring fair labour practices amid growing economic challenges in the country.
The President, who was represented by the Minister of Labour and Employment, Muhammad Dingyadi, made this known at the inaugural Quadrennial Delegates Conference of the Trade Union Congress (TUC) of Nigeria, held in Abuja on Friday.
In his address, Tinubu applauded the TUC leadership under its National President, Festus Osifo, for its steadfast commitment to advocating for improved living conditions for Nigerian workers. He particularly noted the union’s role in the negotiation of a new national minimum wage following the removal of fuel subsidy in 2023.
“Your demand for better economic conditions following the removal of the floor subsidy in 2023 and your subsequent active participation in negotiations with the government culminated in the new minimum wage for Nigerian workers today attest to your invaluable efforts. You are integral to our mission to build a Nigeria where every citizen can achieve their full potential,” Tinubu stated.
He emphasised the need to prioritize fair labour practices, strengthen labour laws, invest in skills development, and advance economic justice.
“Although technology has the power to transform industries, create new opportunities and drive economic growth, it poses risks of diminishing job displacement and widening inequalities. It is therefore our political responsibility to harness the benefits of digital innovation whilst guiding the principles of fairness, equity and justice,” he said.
Addressing the theme of the conference, “The Future of Work: Ensuring Fair Labour Practices, Economic Justice and Digital Health,” Tinubu encouraged delegates to embrace integrity and transparency in the election of new leaders who would advance the interests of Nigerian workers.
“I urge you to elect leaders with vision, accountability, and innovation, individuals who will champion workers’ voices in a rapidly changing world of work,” he said.
TUC President Festus Osifo, in his welcome remarks, noted the significance of the transition from a triennial to a quadrennial delegates’ conference following a constitutional amendment approved by the Ministry of Labour.
Osifo also acknowledged the resilience of Nigerian workers amid the nation’s economic downturn, stating the part of the activities scheduled for the event is to celebrate them .
“So we are going to have that celebration along with the event of today, also the dinner and award ceremony that we are going to put together tomorrow evening to celebrate Nigerian workers, to celebrate the men and women who toil day and night to ensure that this country remains a good concern.
“The men and women behind the numbers of GDP, the men and women who ensure that as a country, we continuously work stronger and stronger, as a people, we continuously grow and move from strength to strength. Yet, they are the ones bearing the brunt of the economic challenges. Our naira has been grossly devalued, and insecurity has driven farmers away from their lands, worsening the food crisis,” he decried