THE APPOINTMENT of Alhaji Maigari Dingyadi as Nigeria’s new Minister of Labour and Employment comes at a critical time for the country’s labour sector. As someone with a reputation for pragmatism and a clear vision, Dingyadi has the potential to bridge the growing divide between workers, employers, and the government. But his success will depend on his ability to reinvigorate tripartism — a principle that has long been side-lined in Nigeria’s labour governance.
The key to achieving this lies in the reactivation of the National Labour Advisory Council (NLAC). This tripartite body, which brings labour unions, employers, and the government to the table, has been dormant for too long, leaving Nigeria’s labour policies fragmented and reactive. Dingyadi’s leadership provides an opportunity to breathe life back into this crucial framework, creating a platform for social dialogue that addresses industrial disputes, policy gaps, and worker grievances.
The first 100 days of Dingyadi’s tenure will be crucial. This period must not be wasted on rhetoric or political manoeuvring. Instead, he should immediately convene the NLAC, set a clear timeline for the labour bill’s passage, and address immediate industrial disputes. Quick wins will not only boost his credibility but also signal to stakeholders that this administration is serious about labor reforms.
Reviving the NLAC is not just a bureaucratic checkbox, it is the foundation of any functional labour policy. Without it, the current tensions between labour and employers will continue to fester, jeopardising industrial harmony and economic productivity.
The Labour Bill: A test of commitment
Another litmus test for Dingyadi’s tenure will be the passage of the long-stalled labour reform bill. This legislation, which has languished in the National Assembly, is desperately needed to modernise our labour laws. It addresses critical issues such as informal sector employment, gig work, and workplace equity —issues that reflect the realities of the 21st century labour market.
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For too long, this bill has been a victim of legislative inertia. Dingyadi must seize the moment to push it through, not just as a matter of law-making but as a demonstration of political will. Engaging the NLAC to build consensus among stakeholders could be a game-changer, ensuring that the bill garners broad support before being presented to the president for assent.
A vision for Nigeria’s workforce
Beyond these immediate priorities, Dingyadi must also address systemic issues plaguing the labour sector. Youth unemployment, a ticking time bomb, requires urgent action. Expanding skills development programs, fostering public-private partnerships, and creating pathways for young Nigerians to enter the workforce must be at the forefront of his agenda.
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Equally important is the need to extend social protections to Nigeria’s informal workers. This is not just a moral imperative; it is an economic necessity. With the informal sector accounting for a significant portion of Nigeria’s workforce, policies that offer these workers security and dignity will stabilise families, reduce inequality and bolster economic resilience.
Why timing matters
The first 100 days of Dingyadi’s tenure will be crucial. This period must not be wasted on rhetoric or political manoeuvring. Instead, he should immediately convene the NLAC, set a clear timeline for the labour bill’s passage, and address immediate industrial disputes. Quick wins will not only boost his credibility but also signal to stakeholders that this administration is serious about labor reforms.
The stakes are high
If Dingyadi can align labour policies with the principles of tripartism and social dialogue, he will leave a legacy of stability and progress. But if he fails, the labour sector will remain plagued by distrust, inefficiency and unresolved conflicts – factors that could stifle Nigeria’s economic growth and social cohesion.
This is a pivotal moment for Nigeria’s labour sector, and Dingyadi has the tools to effect real change. It’s time for him to act with urgency, foresight, and a commitment to collaboration.
The stakes couldn’t be higher – for workers, for employers, and for the nation as a whole.
Comrade Salihu is former Acting Secretary General, Trade Union Congress (TUC) of Nigeria. He can be reached via: email: hassananka@gmail.com; WhatsApp: +234 803 314 9100
