Nigeria has been given until September to report to the International Labour Organisation (ILO) on measures taken to address labour rights issues, including trade union freedoms and compliance with international labour standards.
Mr. Nuhu Toro, Secretary-General of the Trade Union Congress (TUC), disclosed the development while briefing newsmen on Friday during the ongoing 113th International Labour Conference in Geneva, Switzerland.
Toro explained that the deadline follows deliberations on complaints regarding workers’ rights and the implementation of ILO Conventions ratified by Nigeria, including Convention 87 on freedom of association and Convention 98 on collective bargaining. “This provides an opportunity for Nigeria to demonstrate commitment to labour rights and improve workers’ welfare,” he said.
The TUC Secretary-General also highlighted recent measures promoting gender inclusion within trade unions. He noted that the TUC now reserves key leadership positions, such as state secretary and vice-chairperson, for women across all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT). Women currently hold strategic positions, including chairperson roles in Lagos State and the FCT.
“Our goal is to ensure women’s voices are heard and to break barriers limiting their advancement within the labour movement and society at large,” Toro said.
Despite progress, Toro expressed concern about state interference in trade union administration in certain regions, citing Lagos, Rivers, and Edo states, where government actions have reportedly undermined democratically elected union leaders. He urged all levels of government to respect workers’ rights and uphold the principles of freedom of association and collective bargaining.
Toro reaffirmed the TUC’s commitment to defending the interests of workers and ensuring Nigeria’s full compliance with international labour standards.
