The International Labour Organization (ILO) has released its 2026 annual report reviewing how countries, including Nigeria, are complying with international labour standards, raising fresh concerns over workers’ rights, trade union freedoms, and ongoing labour law reforms.
The report, published on 13 February 2026, was prepared by the Committee of Experts on the Application of Conventions and Recommendations (CEACR) and marks the Committee’s 100th anniversary. It examines how governments apply labour standards in law and practice and calls for stronger measures to promote decent work and social justice.
Through the report, the Committee said the review was necessary to ensure countries remain accountable and committed to protecting workers. It added that the findings will inform deliberations at the next International Labour Conference, where governments, employers, and workers will meet to assess progress and consider further reforms.
Reaffirming its long-standing supervisory role, the Committee noted that for more than a century it has promoted fairness, consistency, and respect for workers’ rights by closely scrutinising how countries implement ratified conventions.
The experts also disclosed that they held discussions with United Nations human rights bodies and the UN Working Group on Business and Human Rights. According to the Committee, the engagement focused on strengthening collaboration among international institutions to better protect labour and human rights.
The report explained that international labour standards are legal instruments adopted by governments, employers, and workers at the International Labour Conference. These include conventions, protocols, and recommendations designed to promote decent work globally. Once a country ratifies such instruments, it must report regularly on their implementation.
Although ratification remains voluntary, the Committee stated that it also reviews how non-ratified standards are respected. It added that each year it conducts a general survey on a key thematic issue, noting that the 2026 survey focuses on “Employment and Decent Work for Peace and Resilience”.
Regarding Nigeria, the Committee reviewed compliance with the Freedom of Association and Protection of the Right to Organise Convention, 1948. It referred to a 2016 ruling of the National Industrial Court, which held that teachers employed by the Federal Civil Service Commission were automatically members of the Association of Senior Civil Servants of Nigeria, though they could opt out in writing.
The Committee noted that the government confirmed the judgment remains in force. However, it stressed that workers must be free to choose or change their unions without pressure. “Imposed trade union unity is contrary to the Convention,” the experts stated. They requested clarification on whether measures are being taken to allow workers to join unions directly, rather than having to opt out following automatic enrolment.
On export processing zones, the Committee observed that certain laws continue to restrict union activities. It stated that worker representatives face difficulties accessing these zones. While welcoming government efforts to develop sector-specific guidelines, particularly in the oil and gas industry, the Committee urged the authorities to expedite reforms and provide detailed data on unions operating within these areas.
The report further underscored the need to amend several provisions of the Trade Unions Act, including rules governing union formation, registration of new unions, ministerial powers, strike restrictions, and financial oversight. The Committee warned that, unless reviewed, these provisions could undermine workers’ rights.
According to the report, the government informed the Conference Committee in June 2025 that the Trade Unions Act would be incorporated into a new Collective Labour Relations Bill being drafted at the Ministry of Justice. The experts urged the authorities to complete the process without delay and ensure alignment with international standards.
On collective bargaining, the Committee examined submissions from the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC), which alleged weak dispute resolution mechanisms and interference in negotiations.
Although the government cited the 2025 National Industrial Relations Policy, the Committee said this did not sufficiently address the specific allegations raised. It therefore requested clarification on concrete steps being taken to promote free and voluntary collective bargaining and asked that a copy of the policy be submitted.
The experts also expressed concern over reports of anti-union discrimination, including alleged mass dismissals in the banking, education, oil and gas, and telecommunications sectors. They noted that the government had yet to provide adequate information regarding investigations into these claims.
While welcoming sector guidelines and ongoing consultations with labour groups, the Committee cautioned that legislation alone is insufficient. “They must be supported by fast and effective procedures,” it said, urging the authorities to ensure thorough investigations and accountability.
On broader labour law reform, the Committee reiterated its call for full collective bargaining rights for public sector workers, including those in the prison services and the Central Bank of Nigeria. It also urged amendments to provisions requiring ministerial approval of wage agreements.
The report noted that all labour laws are currently under review at the Ministry of Justice. While welcoming the decision to exclude certain restrictive provisions from the proposed legislation, the Committee maintained that further amendments are necessary to meet international standards.
Finally, it requested comprehensive data on collective agreements currently in force across sectors and the number of workers covered, stating that such information is essential to assess the effectiveness of collective bargaining in practice.
The report will be presented at the 114th session of the International Labour Conference, where governments, employers, and workers are expected to debate its findings and agree on further steps to strengthen labour rights globally.
