Abuja: The Minister of Labour and Employment, Dr Muhammadu Dingyadi, has reaffirmed the Federal Government’s commitment to social dialogue and inclusive development in Nigeria’s industrial relations space. The minister was speaking at the 7th National Quadrennial Delegates Conference of the National Union of Civil Engineering Construction, Furniture and Wood Workers (NUCECFWW) held in Abuja.
According to Voice of Nigeria, Dingyadi, represented by the Director of Trade Union Services and Industrial Relations, Amos Falonipe, described the conference theme, ‘Building Trade Unions’ Future through Strategic Organising and Investments’, as both timely and visionary. He highlighted the vital role of the construction industry in Nigeria’s economic growth and emphasized the need for unions to adapt to evolving technologies and labour dynamics.
Dingyadi added that the Ministry is committed to supporting unions through policy reforms and capacity-building programmes. He stressed the importance of social dialogue and collaboration with trade unions to achieve decent work, industrial peace, and economic resilience. He also addressed the ongoing engagement with unions on labour law reviews, occupational safety standards, and other key issues.
In his remarks, the President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Comrade Joe Ajaero, underscored the necessity of building stronger unions through deliberate organising and sustainable investments. He emphasized the need for proactive measures to secure the union’s independence and capacity amidst economic challenges.
Ajaero also praised Imo State Governor Hope Uzodinma for approving a new minimum wage of N104,000 for workers, calling it a commendable example of responsive leadership. He encouraged other states to follow suit, highlighting the principle that minimum wage represents the least that workers should earn.
Comrade Stephen Okoro, President of NUCECFWW, reflected on the challenges faced by trade unions, particularly in light of economic policies affecting industries. He urged unions to innovate and expand their reach, emphasizing the need for sustainable financial models and investment in education and training for members.
The conference, attended by top labour leaders, reaffirmed the importance of unions in defending workers’ rights, securing fair pay, and ensuring safe and decent work conditions in Nigeria’s construction and allied industries.