In an effort to curb frequent industrial actions by trade unions, the Federal Government has approved the National Industrial Relations Policy (NIRP) 2025. The policy aims to regulate trade union conduct and foster harmonious relationships between employers and employees.
This announcement comes amid a nationwide warning strike by the National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives, Federal Health Institutions Sector (NANNM-FHI), now in its third day, as well as growing unrest across Nigeria’s labour sector. The government has confirmed the withdrawal of a contentious circular that triggered the health workers’ strike and plans to meet with striking nurses and doctors today.
Speaking after the Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting chaired by President Bola Tinubu, Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, said, “This policy is essential for regulating the conduct of various trade unions in the country. Frequent industrial actions over the years have shown the need for a comprehensive national policy. FEC reviewed the issue and approved the policy, which was proposed by the Minister of Labour and Employment.”
Idris added that the policy will “ensure seamless operations, promote social dialogue, and strengthen tripartite cooperation among government, employers, and workers. It also aligns Nigeria’s industrial relations practices with global standards, including those of the International Labour Organisation (ILO).”
Acknowledging gaps in the enforcement of existing industrial laws, Idris emphasized the necessity of a new national policy to boost compliance and accountability.
Addressing efforts to restore peace in the health sector, Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Pate, confirmed that the government has acknowledged and addressed the concerns of professional groups. “We are negotiating revised allowances transparently,” he said. “Not all issues are financial; we are also tackling structural matters like the centralization of nurses’ postings. The government is committed to respecting and supporting health workers.”
Prof. Pate also announced the approval of an Oncology Centre at the University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan, highlighting the administration’s commitment to revolutionizing the health sector.
Meanwhile, leaders of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) condemned what they described as ongoing government and security agency interference in trade union affairs. The unions warned against attempts to create divisions between NLC and TUC, which could weaken their collective advocacy for workers.
Speaking while welcoming the new leadership of the Radio, Television and Arts Workers Union (RATTAWU), TUC President Festus Osifo, represented by Secretary-General Dr. Nuhu Toro, said, “The TUC believes in solidarity and collective action. Together, we can amplify our voices and strengthen our advocacy for justice, equity, and improved welfare for all Nigerian workers. We are aware of tactics aimed at dividing us, but we are confident we can overcome these challenges.”
NLC President Joe Ajaero criticized government interference in trade union matters, stating, “It is unheard of in other countries for governments to meddle in trade union internal affairs.” He noted that the International Labour Organisation is monitoring Nigeria’s actions and reminded authorities that trade unions operate independently under international labour standards.
Ajaero also condemned government involvement in union funds like the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF) and the National Pension Commission (PenCom), as well as union members who involve security agencies in internal disputes for personal gain.
Regarding the ongoing strike, NANNM-FHI National Chairman Morakinyo-Olajide Rilwan affirmed that the strike would not be suspended based on promises alone. “The government will likely ask us to suspend the strike so they can review our demands. We are not comfortable with that. Some demands must be met before the strike can be suspended.”
He stressed that nurses are compassionate and have been patient, but the strike is now the last option to get government attention. Rilwan called for a Memorandum of Understanding before any suspension and expressed regret that recent government meetings lacked key stakeholders, including the Minister of Health and Head of Civil Service.
The government, however, remains optimistic that the issues can be resolved through negotiation and reiterated its commitment to constructive dialogue with the unions under President Tinubu’s direction.
