Right to Work in Nigeria: Lesson from ILO Standards

Abstract

All citizens reserve a right to work in Nigeria. This right is a fundamental part of economic stability and human dignity. The right to work is recognized globally by various International Labour Standards, more especially by those established by the International Labour Organization (ILO). The right to work in Nigeria is enshrined in the 1999 Constitution and numerous labour laws in Nigeria. Some of the significant challenges of the right to work include high unemployment and inadequate enforcement of labour standards. Gaps were found to exist between the legal provisions and the actual enforcement and implementation of the rights. This had led to a number of violations and limited access to decent work for many Nigerians. This research aims at critically appraising the right to work in Nigeria in view of the International Labour Organization (ILO) standards with a view of enhancing the effectiveness of Nigeria’s labour framework. The research deployed the doctrinal research approach to analyze the relevant legal and policy framework in the Nigeria Labour regime comparing them International Standards particularly those of the ILO. The research discovered that significant strides have been made in aligning Nigeria labour laws with International Standards. Substantial Gaps still exist in the area of enforcement coverage and the protection of vulnerable workers. This research ended by recommending increased awareness of workers’ rights, enhancing the capacity of labour institutions to monitor and ensure compliance with international standards and the strengthening of institutional mechanism for the enforcement of labour laws. If the above recommendations are activated, it would be a step in the realization of right to work in Nigeria and in consequence the promotion of sustainable economic development.