By Onilede Titi Faith
The Federal Government has approved the National Industrial Relations Policy (NIRP), 2025, designed to standardize trade union conduct, reduce frequent strikes, and align Nigeria’s industrial relations framework with global best practices.
However, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), has strongly opposed key provisions of the policy, arguing that it seeks to criminalize strikes; a right protected under Nigeria’s constitution and labour laws.
Amid the tensions, Minister of Labour and Employment, Muhammad Maigari Dingyadi, has taken a diplomatic approach, emphasizing the government’s commitment to industrial peace.
He has called for constructive dialogue, fair worker compensation, and peaceful dispute resolution.
While acknowledging labour concerns, Dingyadi advocates for inclusive engagement, seeking to avoid punitive measures in favor of collaboration.
The minister stressed that a harmonious labour environment is essential for national productivity and development.
While supporting orderly industrial relations, he reiterated that the right to protest must be preserved within lawful limits.
Meanwhile, the Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA) welcomed the NIRP, describing it as a pragmatic reform that could modernize employer-worker relations and promote workplace stability.
