Nigeria is a national disgrace according to the NLC's global labor rights ranking.

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has expressed its worries about the country’s low position globally regarding workers’ rights. It has come to light that Nigeria is once more listed among the ten worst countries for labor rights violations.

The NLC labeled this ranking as a national disgrace and urged employers to take the initiative in changing this situation.

Joe Ajaero, the President of the NLC, shared this information during the 68th Annual General Meeting of the Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association in Lagos on Wednesday.

Ajaero, represented by Adewale Adeyanju, the Deputy President of the NLC and former President-General of the Maritime Workers Union of Nigeria, highlighted that the 2025 ITUC Global Rights Index places Nigeria among the most severe violators of workers' rights worldwide.

“This tarnishes our conscience and is a legacy we must reject. These violations frequently happen in businesses represented here,” he stated.

He called upon NECA to demonstrate leadership by promoting adherence to labor laws and the principles of collective bargaining.

“I ask NECA to set a positive example by upholding collective bargaining, respecting labor laws, and honoring the dignity of workers,” Ajaero mentioned.

Additionally, he urged for stronger cooperation between employers and organized labor to implement the resolutions from the recent 113th International Labour Conference in Geneva. According to him, this partnership is vital for managing the rapidly expanding platform economy and enhancing workplace safety.

“Merely making statements isn't enough. We must collaborate to turn these promises into real protections for workers against the dangers of unregulated technology while also harnessing its advantages,” Ajaero asserted.

He praised NECA’s Director-General, Mr. Adewale-Smatt Oyerinde, for his willingness to engage in discussions, emphasizing that collaboration between both parties is essential for achieving harmony in the workplace.

“His readiness for sincere dialogue has confirmed that we are not opponents but allies united by a shared goal,” Ajaero concluded.

He urged NECA to collaborate with the NLC in adopting new conventions from the International Labour Organisation, particularly the Convention and Recommendation on Decent Work in the Platform Economy and the Biohazards Convention, which aims to improve health and safety standards at work.

"Now is the time to strengthen our country’s occupational safety and health regulations," he stated.

Ajaero emphasized the NLC’s call for a Standing Committee to be formed between the NLC and NECA. He insisted that this arrangement is essential for maintaining open communication, preventing disputes, and resolving conflicts.

"This is not just a suggestion; it is vital for lasting industrial harmony," he declared.

The NLC president criticized the attempts by certain state governors and lawmakers to shift labor issues away from the Exclusive Legislative List, warning that such actions threaten to undermine industrial relations nationwide.

"These misguided efforts demonstrate a dangerous lack of understanding of the disorder they could cause. In times like these, unity serves as our protection," he remarked.

Ajaero also raised concerns about wider societal challenges impacting the labor environment, such as oppression, diminishing civic space, and economic marginalization.

"A healthy civic space is essential—it is where businesses and workers can thrive," he noted. "We need to fight to restore Nigeria’s civic space, which is being eroded by insecurity, repression, and economic exclusion."

He wrapped up by reminding employers of the crucial role that workers play in the success of businesses, highlighting the need for fairness and justice in labor relations.

"Pursuing profit without caring for people is hollow; progress without justice is just an illusion," Ajaero pointed out. "That employee you deem dispensable is the very consumer who keeps your business running."

He also congratulated NECA for its 68th AGM and expressed optimism that the conversations would promote fair, productive, and decent workplaces throughout Nigeria.