Labour Leaders Harp On Collective Bargaining For Workers’ Productivity

Prominent figures in Nigeria’s labour sector have reiterated the importance of collective bargaining as a driving force for improved productivity while stressing its role in bridging the gap between workers, employers and government.

During the launch of a book, The Tripartite: “Understanding the Interplay Between Workers, Employers and Government”, a six-chapter book authored by Sharon O’ijasan, in Abuja, they shed light on the evolution of labour struggles and the future of work place in Nigeria.

The book serves as a reminder of the evolving nature of work and the need for continued collaboration between key players in Nigeria’s labour sector to ensure fair working conditions for all.

President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Comrade Joe Ajaero who spoke on the growing informal job sector, expressed hope that the book would serve as a catalyst for further research into the informal workforce which includes jobs like Okada (motorcycle taxi) riders.

Former NLC President, Comrade Ayuba Wabba stressed the role of tripartism—cooperation between workers, employers, and government—in addressing key labour challenges.

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He expressed optimism that, by relying on facts, such cooperation could lead to practical solutions.

Director of the National Institute for Labour Studies (NILS), Issa Aremu, also stressed the need for reform through inclusive participation, noting that meaningful change in the labour sector requires the involvement of all stakeholders.

The author, Sharon O’ijasan explained her motivation for writing the book, which stemmed from her decade-long experience covering labour issues as a reporter.

She expressed the need to document important labour struggles and negotiations for future generations.

Referencing the growing number of people working in informal sectors like digital content creation and home-based businesses, O’ijasan called for more recognition and protection for workers in these areas, who often lack formal structures to safeguard their rights.

O’ijasan noted that the pandemic accelerated the shift to informal work, but stakeholders have yet to fully acknowledge its permanence.

She said, “There are many activities in the labour sector that have not been documented, the future of work is evolving, especially with the rise of the platform economy.

Informal work is here to stay, especially post-COVID-19. We need to ensure that the rights of young workers in the platform economy are protected, from health care to job security.”