In a decisive move to stem the tide of recurring industrial actions across the country, the Federal Government has approved the National Industrial Relations Policy (NIRP) 2025, aimed at reforming and regulating union activities while fostering industrial harmony in the workplace.
The approval was announced at the end of Wednesday’s Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting, presided over by President Bola Ahmed Tinubu at the Presidential Villa, Abuja.
Briefing State House correspondents, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, said the policy is a response to the nation’s prolonged challenges with industrial disputes, often resulting from the absence of a cohesive national labour framework.
“This policy will serve as a guide for employers and employees, including trade unions. It promotes social dialogue, tripartite cooperation, and aligns Nigeria’s labour practices with international standards, especially those of the International Labour Organisation (ILO),” he said.
The NIRP, introduced by the Minister of Labour and Employment, seeks to address gaps in enforcement and implementation of existing labour laws and emphasizes the need for continuous dialogue among stakeholders.
Circular Withdrawn, FG Engages Striking Nurses
In a related development, the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Muhammad Ali Pate, disclosed that the controversial circular issued by the National Salaries, Income and Wages Commission—believed to have triggered the ongoing strike by nurses and midwives—has been officially withdrawn.
Prof. Pate also revealed that negotiations are underway with key stakeholders in the health sector, including the Nigerian Medical Association (NMA) and nurses’ unions, with fresh discussions scheduled for today.
“We are currently addressing both financial and non-financial concerns. These include allowances and issues such as centralisation of postings. Government remains committed to ensuring health workers are respected and supported,” he said.
The Federal Government also announced plans for a new Oncology Centre at the University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan, as part of broader reforms in the healthcare sector.
Nurses Insist on Concrete Action Before Ending Strike
The National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives, Federal Health Institutions Sector (NANNM-FHI), whose members commenced a seven-day warning strike earlier this week, has vowed not to suspend the industrial action unless the Federal Government demonstrates tangible commitment.
Speaking to reporters in Abuja, the union’s National Chairman, Comrade Morakinyo-Olajide Rilwan, emphasized that promises were no longer sufficient.
“We expect a signed Memorandum of Understanding, not mere assurances. We’ve been patient for too long, and this strike is a last resort. The government must address key parts of our demands before we consider calling off the strike,” he said.
Rilwan lamented the inconclusive nature of prior meetings with government officials, including the latest session with the Minister of Labour, Muhammadu Dingyadi, which ended in a stalemate due to the absence of critical stakeholders.
Labour Unions Warn Against Government Interference
Meanwhile, organised labour has raised the alarm over alleged interference by the Federal Government and security agencies in trade union affairs.
At separate events in Abuja, the Presidents of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC), Joe Ajaero and Festus Osifo, reiterated their commitment to unity and resistance against external efforts to divide the labour movement.
Ajaero, who received the newly elected leadership of the Radio, Television and Theatre Arts Workers’ Union (RATTAWU) at the NLC headquarters, accused the government of meddling in union affairs and warned that such actions violate ILO conventions.
“The ILO is watching closely. Trade unions are autonomous and governed by their own rules. Any interference in our internal affairs, or manipulation of worker-related funds like those in NSITF or PenCom, will be strongly resisted,” Ajaero said.
TUC’s Secretary-General, Dr. Nuhu Toro, who represented Osifo, also cautioned against divisive tactics, asserting that both labour centres are united in the pursuit of justice and improved welfare for Nigerian workers.
“Managements and government often try divide-and-rule tactics. But we will remain united, amplify our collective voice, and secure better conditions for our members,” he said.
Outlook
As the nurses’ strike enters its third day, expectations are high for today’s meeting between the Federal Government and union leaders. Stakeholders and observers hope the dialogue will produce actionable outcomes and a pathway to lasting peace in the health sector.
The newly approved National Industrial Relations Policy is also being closely watched as a potential turning point in Nigeria’s labour-management relations—offering a framework to reduce disruptions, enhance productivity, and protect the rights of workers.
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