The African Regional Organisation of the International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC-Africa) and the Trade Union Centre (TUC) have flayed state governors’ interference in the affairs of trade unions and centres

The General Secretary of ITUC-Africa, Joel Odigie, and the Secretary General of TUC, Nuhu Toro, who stated this in an interview with The Guardian, expressed concern over increasing state interference in trade union affairs.

Citing disputes involving labour organisations in Lagos, Rivers and Edo states, Odigie argued that government involvement in union administration undermines freedom of association and established industrial relations practices.

He also criticised the prolonged delay in reforming Nigeria’s labour laws, noting that efforts to modernise the legal framework have dragged on for years despite changing realities in the world of work.

The unresolved case involving the assault of the President of the Nigeria Labour Congress was another issue raised.
Odigie called for accountability, compensation where necessary, and assurances that similar incidents would not occur again.

The two labour unionists also raised concern over Nigeria’s inability to exercise its voting rights at the just-concluded International Labour Conference held in Geneva due to outstanding financial obligations.

Odigie described the situation as unfortunate for a country of Nigeria’s stature and influence within the international labour community.

Odigie also lauded the International Labour Organisation (ILO) for adopting the Convention on Decent Work in the Platform Economy, saying it represents a significant step forward in ensuring that platform workers enjoy rights and protections similar to those available to workers in traditional employment.

Talking about intense debates on gender issues and how discussions became contentious following attempts by the United States delegation to revisit aspects of gender definitions within labour standards discussions, Odigie maintained that, regardless of differing cultural perspectives, workplace policies should prioritise the protection of vulnerable workers and ensure that no group faces discrimination in the world of work.

Another major issue was Palestine’s status within the International Labour Organisation.
Odigie criticised efforts to reopen a decision already taken by the ILO Governing Body to grant Palestine observer status.

He noted that the overwhelming support for Palestine reflected a growing international consensus on the need to recognise and protect Palestinian workers and their rights.

The ITUC-Africa General Secretary also drew attention to discussions surrounding ILO Recommendation 205 on Employment and Decent Work for Peace and Resilience.

He urged countries experiencing conflict and instability, including several African nations, to make greater use of the recommendation’s provisions to address crises and promote recovery.

Corroborating the concerns, the Secretary General of the Trade Union Congress of Nigeria, Nuhu Toro, confirmed that government support for the country’s tripartite delegation has been inadequate for several years.

He also welcomed the adoption of the Platform Workers Convention, describing it as a crucial development for workers in Nigeria’s growing digital economy.

The TUC leader highlighted efforts by the Congress to strengthen women’s participation in union leadership, including policies reserving key positions for women across state structures. He said these measures are already yielding positive results and helping to break barriers to female representation.

Both labour leaders agreed that Nigeria must accelerate labour law reforms, strengthen respect for trade union independence, and improve compliance with international labour standards.

They submitted that, while important progress has been made globally on workers’ rights and inclusion, significant challenges remain at home, and that the Federal Government must prioritise urgent reforms, stronger social dialogue, and renewed commitment to international labour obligations.