Nigeria is committed to promoting and ensuring decent work environment, in line with the set standards of the International Labour Organisation (ILO).

The Minister of Labour and Employment, Sen. Chris Ngige, stated this in Abuja on the occasion of the anniversary of the ILO Centenary and 60 Years of ILO in Africa celebration.

He noted that “Nigeria has ratified well over forty (40) ILO Conventions, including the eight (8) Fundamental Conventions and two priority or governance conventions on the applications of these Conventions as required.”

The Minister, represented by the Permanent Secretary, Mr. William Alo, added that “ILO, in collaboration with the Nigerian government, has concluded the Decent Work Country Programme (DWCP 1 and II) and modalities are being put in place to commence DWCP III for Nigeria.”

Ngige described decent work as central to sustainable development, and its importance is highlighted by Goal 8 of the Sustainable Development Goals, which aims to “promote sustained, inclusive and sustainable economic growth, full and productive employment and decent work for all”.

The Minister commended ILO for successfully serving its tripartite constituents, as well as the wider society, by formulating international policies and programmes aimed at promoting basic human rights and improving working conditions; developing International Labour Standards; providing international technical assistance to constituents, among others.

He congratulated ILO on its centenary anniversary, describing it as a worthy partner to Nigeria.

In a welcome address, the Director, ILO country Office, Dennis Zulu, said that ILO remained committed to working with its member states, Nigeria inclusive, in the quest for a better future; and called for adequate preparation to cope with the challenges of the future workplace.

Zulu expressed delight that the ILO Centenary coincided with the celebration of 60 years since the ILO opened its first office on the continent of Africa, in Lagos.