As Nigeria joined the global community to mark Decent Work Day on Tuesday, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has called on the government and private sector to end what it described as the “sacred cow syndrome” in the country’s workplaces.
In a statement released by NLC President, Comrade Joe Ajaero, the union urged employers to treat all workers fairly and uphold their rights, regardless of position or affiliation. Ajaero stressed that no worker should be treated as untouchable or above the law, while others suffer exploitation and injustice.
“The rights and welfare of workers must not be compromised. We must end all forms of exploitation and impunity in our workplaces,” Ajaero said.
He explained that Decent Work Day, observed every October 7 globally, is a day to reflect on the conditions of workers and push for better standards. He described decent work as essential for national development, warning that denying workers their rights could hinder Nigeria’s progress.
“No nation can achieve true development while repressing workers’ rights and promoting inequality,” Ajaero warned.
The NLC leader also reminded employers—both public and private—about the four key pillars of decent work:
Job creation,
Social protection,
Rights at work, and
Social dialogue.
According to him, many workplaces in Nigeria ignore these principles, creating environments where workers are poorly paid, overworked, or silenced.
He pointed fingers at some government agencies and private companies, accusing them of undermining efforts towards industrialisation and economic diversification through unfair labour practices.
Ajaero emphasized that workers are the backbone of any economy, and improving their welfare should be a top priority for anyone serious about national growth.
As the struggle for decent work continues, the NLC says it will remain committed to advocating for justice, fairness, and respect in every workplace across Nigeria.
Decent Work Day is an initiative of the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC) and has been marked worldwide since 2008. It aims to promote better job conditions, fair income, and respect for workers’ rights globally.
