Nigeria is committed to developing an inclusive democratic state, just society, says official

By Joan Nwagwu

Nigeria committed to developing an inclusive democratic state and a just society, with focus and main priority on human rights.

Ms Kachollom Daju, Permanent Secretary, Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment made  the pledge in a statement signed by Mr Olajide Oshundun, Director, Press and Public Relations in the ministry.

Daju , who is also the leader of Nigeria’s delegation,  made the pledge at the ongoing 111th Session of the International Labour Conference (ILC) of the International Labour Organisation (ILO), holding from June 5 to June 16 in Geneva, Switzerland.

“Nigeria is committed to the provision of  gainful employment that delivers fair income, security in the work places as well as social protection for all categories of its citizens.

“Injustice and persistent inequality where workers are subjected to unsafe, unhealthy and unfair practices does not inspire sustainable development.

“To address these, the National Policy on Occupational Safety and Health was recently revised to give full effect to  government’s intervention in this regard.

“We are currently updating our Future of Work Report to align with the ILO Centenary Declaration, the Abidjan Declaration, as well as the Fundamental Principles and Rights at Work, as amended,”she said.

Nigeria, she said, is also  offering opportunities for personal development and social integration under the atmosphere of freedom and popular participation for women and men.

She said Nigeria’s commitment is drafted in the  second Decent Work Country Programme 2015-2018.

“We are waiting for the commencement of our third phase with technical support from the ILO Abuja Office.

“Plans are at an advanced stage to commenced necessary process towards the ratification of ILO Convention No. 102 on Social Security (Minimum Standards) to bring the total number of ratified ILO Conventions to 45,” she said.

Daju further said that Nigeria was focused on several intervention programmes on social protection to ensure the non-erosion of the pre-COVID-19 gains on the country’s  Social Protection Floors, as well as to cushion the effects of the emerging global challenges.

“We continuously engage with our constituents and development partners towards strengthening our legal and   institutional framework to deliver on our expectations.

“This is  with regards to our avowed respect for the fundamental principles and rights at work, provision of full productive and freely chosen employment, social and labour protection, and social dialogue and tripartite institutions,”she said.

She said others include labour rights, consistent enhancement of decent work and real income, improving the system of social protection, ensuring gender equality while developing our vast youthful demographic to the fullest.

Earlier, ILO Director-General, Gilbert  Houngbo had called for social justice and equality to fight growing economic disparities worldwide.

 

(NAN)