Vice President Kashim Shettima has reaffirmed the Nigerian government’s commitment to the welfare of organized labour, inclusive economic policies, and wage reforms. Speaking on Thursday during a meeting with a delegation led by the Director-General of the International Labour Organisation (ILO), Gilbert Houngbo, and the Minister of Labour and Employment, Muhammad Dingyadi, Shettima highlighted the government’s dedication to ensuring a thriving workforce and efficient labour ecosystem.
VP Shettima emphasized that President Bola Tinubu is deeply committed to improving the welfare of Nigerian workers. He pointed to the recent increase in the national minimum wage and commended states that have gone beyond the agreed N70,000 minimum. He also praised the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) for its leadership and dedication to workers’ rights.
During the meeting, Shettima noted Nigeria’s youthful population as a major asset, which could help the country bridge global talent gaps. He mentioned that Nigeria’s demographic advantages, with an average age of 16.9 years, can be transformed into a demographic dividend with the right policies.
The Vice President assured the ILO delegation that the Nigerian government would continue to prioritize inclusive labour policies and fair wages while fostering economic growth. He also pledged to brief President Tinubu about the ILO’s requests upon his return.
The ILO DG, Houngbo, expressed gratitude to the Vice President for the meeting and acknowledged Nigeria’s critical role in his election as ILO DG. He also appealed for support in finalizing the reform of the labour code and reviving the National Labour Advisory Council (NLAC), a forum for social dialogue among tripartite constituents.
The meeting was attended by key figures from the Ministry of Labour and Employment, including Nkiruka Onyejeocha, the Minister of State for Labour and Employment, and several prominent labor leaders such as Joe Ajaero, the President of the Nigeria Labour Congress.
