The Federal Government and the International Labour Organization (ILO) have reaffirmed their partnership to advance decent work, social justice, and effective labour governance in Nigeria.
The Permanent Secretary of the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment, Mr. Salihu Usman, announced the renewed collaboration during a coordination meeting held in Abuja. The ministry said the meeting was convened to strengthen alignment between its work and the ILO’s country programme priorities.
Usman said the partnership has supported Nigeria’s efforts to improve occupational safety, promote social dialogue, strengthen labour administration, and implement international labour standards. He acknowledged that coordination meetings had not been held for some time due to administrative challenges, but noted that their resumption reflects the strategic importance of close collaboration.
He identified key challenges facing the country’s labour sector, including rising youth unemployment, skills shortages, the expansion of the informal economy, labour migration management, workplace safety concerns, gaps in social protection, and the persistence of child labour. Usman stressed that addressing these issues requires strong institutions, coherent policies, and effective technical collaboration with development partners such as the ILO.
“The meetings will help professional departments within the ministry reduce duplication of efforts, improve information sharing, and develop practical roadmaps with clearly defined responsibilities and timelines,” Usman said.
Speaking at the meeting, the ILO Country Director, Ms. Vanessa Phala, reiterated the organisation’s commitment to supporting Nigeria’s labour priorities through technical assistance, capacity-building programmes, and policy alignment that promotes sustainable employment and protects vulnerable workers.
Phala said: “This forum serves to check with one another that we are still on the right track. Implementation will be seamless because what we are supporting you with is already reflected in your departmental priorities or work plan.”
The coordination meeting signals a renewed focus on joint initiatives to address emerging labour challenges and strengthen Nigeria’s labour institutions, ensuring that the country’s workforce development aligns with global standards and national economic priorities.
