The Minister of Labour and Employment Honorable Simon Bako Lalong has reinstated the commitment of the federal government to restore dignity in the workforce.
Lalong said, “I emphasize our commitment to ensuring that Nigerians are engaged in decent work, promoting economic growth and guaranteeing human dignity”.
The minister said this today, Thursday 30th during the launch of the Decent Work Country Programme III (2023–2027) in Abuja, I highlighted that its implementation will foster productive jobs, career progression, fair income, and social security for families in both public and private sectors. This aligns with Nigeria’s National Development Plan, aiming to generate 21 million jobs and lift 35 million people out of poverty by 2025.
I underscored the responsibility of the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment in integrating decent work into national policies and addressing challenges like child labour, forced labour, and human trafficking.
The Renewed Hope mandate emphasizes the need for Nigerians to engage in safe and productive employment, enhancing human dignity and curbing insecurity. I issued a warning that employers hindering decent work will face sanctions.
Acknowledging the prevalence of decent work deficits, the implementation of DWCP III is crucial. The ILO Country Director, Vanessa Phala, highlighted its role in addressing issues outlined in the diagnostic report, such as informal employment, social protection, poor working conditions, and low unionism rates. The UN Resident Coordinator assured continued engagement to achieve decent work, while representatives from NECA, TUC, and NLC pledged their support.
Lalong had during the programme expressed gratitude for the support received and emphasized that commitment to tackling prevailing decent work deficits.
The day began with a meeting with veteran Nollywood actors, led by Zack Orji, who commended the leadership style of the minister during the APC Campaign that secured the President’s victory at the polls.
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