President Bola Tinubu has reiterated his administration’s commitment to promote fair labour practices and protect the rights and dignity of workers, especially in the face of digital transformation and evolving work conditions.
Speaking through the Minister of Labour and Employment, Maigari Dingyadi, at the inaugural quadrennial delegates conference of the Trade Union Congress of Nigeria, TUC, held in Abuja, Tinubu said government is focused on strengthening existing labour laws, eliminating worker exploitation and ensuring safe workplaces.
The event, with the theme: “The Future of Work — Ensuring Fair Labour Practices and Economic Justice in a Digital Era,” drew attention to the growing challenges posed by automation and digital inequality.
“Although technology has the power to transform industries, create new opportunities and drive economic growth, it poses risks—automation, job displacement and widening inequalities,” Tinubu noted. “It is therefore our collective responsibility to harness the benefits of digital innovation while safeguarding the principles of fairness, equity, and justice.”
“As work evolves globally, we must equip our workers with the skills needed to succeed in a digital economy. We shall continue prioritising education, vocational training, and digital literacy initiatives,” he said.
Commending TUC’s leadership for their “unwavering dedication” to workers welfare, Tinubu praised the union’s role in pushing for improved economic conditions, especially following the end of fuel subsidy in 2023 and negotiations that led to the new minimum wage agreement.
“You are integral to our mission to build a Nigeria where every citizen can achieve their full potential,” he stated.
Calling on delegates to uphold democratic values during the TUC election, Tinubu urged them to elect visionary, service-driven leaders committed to transparency, fairness, and the advancement of labour rights.
“Elect leaders with vision and dedication. Choose individuals who embody the principles of service, accountability, and innovation who will champion workers’ causes in this rapidly changing world of work,” he said.
The president reaffirmed his administration’s support for TUC, expressing confidence that the outcome of the election would reflect its unity and strength.