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ABUJA, Nigeria - Vice President Kashim Shettima has reiterated Nigeria's dedication to the well-being of organized labor members, emphasizing inclusive economic policies and wage reforms.
He stated that President Bola Tinubu is focused on fostering a productive workforce and a robust labor ecosystem.
During a meeting on Thursday with a delegation led by the visiting Director-General of the International Labour Organisation (ILO), Gilbert Houngbo, alongside the Minister of Labour and Employment, Alhaji Muhammad Dingyadi, VP Shettima praised Nigeria’s dynamic labor movement and its contribution to national development.
He remarked, “We have a very vibrant labor movement, headed by a capable and patriotic Nigerian. President Tinubu is genuinely concerned about the welfare of Nigerian workers.
We have increased the minimum wage, and many states have begun to implement it. Some have even surpassed the N70,000 agreed upon nationally. I commend the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) for their statesmanship and commitment to workers' rights.”
The vice president highlighted the global transformation of the workforce and Nigeria’s ability to address talent shortages, pointing out the country's youthful demographic as a significant asset.
“One in four black men is Nigerian, and by 2050 we will exceed the United States in population, making us the third most populous nation globally. The average age in Nigeria is 16.9 years. We possess a demographic advantage, which, if managed with appropriate policies, can turn into a demographic dividend instead of a demographic disaster,” Shettima asserted.
Senator Shettima expressed confidence in the potential of the country’s future workforce, stating, “Our youth are more digitally literate than older generations. Although some traditional jobs might vanish, new opportunities will arise, and we aim to equip our young people with the necessary skills to excel in the changing global economy.”
The vice president conveyed to the ILO chief that the Nigerian government remains devoted to promoting inclusive labor policies, equitable wages, and economic advancement.
“We will persist in collaborating with our allies in the labor movement to ensure forward progress. We are all patriots dedicated to building a stronger Nigeria,” he declared.
Shettima assured the ILO delegation that President Tinubu, who he referred to as an activist himself, would be briefed about their requests upon his return to the country.
“We are all patriots and partners in progress. The president has a strong affinity for the labor ecosystem,” he noted.
Earlier, ILO Director General, Houngbo expressed gratitude to the vice president for welcoming him and his team, acknowledging that his visit was overdue given Nigeria's strategic significance within the ILO, particularly during the term from June 2023 to June 2024 when it presides over the ILO Board of Directors.
Remembering and appreciating Nigeria's backing for his election, Houngbo said, “Without the mobilization of the Nigerian government and social partners, my election would have faced significant challenges. Nigeria rallied a considerable number of African constituents to ensure my election as DG.”
He further mentioned that his visit provided him with an opportunity to engage with ILO’s social partners in Nigeria, including the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), the Trade Union Congress (TUC), and others, remarking that their discussions were productive.
He urged the Federal Government to expedite the finalization of labor code reforms while seeking the vice president's support for the revival of the National Labour Advisory Council (NLAC), a platform for social dialogue among the tripartite constituents. “Given the dynamism of Nigeria's labor market, its population, ambitions, and role in Africa, reviving the NLAC would be highly advantageous for everyone,” he added.
