Unions urge just transition to low-carbon economy

Labour unions have urged the government to protect workers’ rights as the nation transitions to a low-carbon economy.The call to action was made in Lagos recently as the unions launched the Workers’ Charter of Demand on Just Transition, outlining policy demands to cushion the socio-economic effects of decarbonisation on workers and their communities.
Just transition refers to the shift from carbon-based economies to low zero-carbon economies, done in a way that minimizes harm to workers, their families, and communities.

This approach recognises the interconnectedness of climate action, social justice, and sustainable development that prioritizes the rights, interests, and well-being of Nigerian workers.

Speaking on behalf of the unions, the General Secretary of the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG), Afolabi Olawale, explained that decent work balances economic goals with social responsibility, prioritizing the well-being and protection of workers.

Calling on the government to show more commitment to the cause, the NUPENG General Secretary said: “We, the workers of Nigeria, will continue to advocate for our rights and interests throughout this transitory process and demand that our government, employers, and other social partners work with us to ensure a just transition to a low-carbon economy.” He further emphasised several key provisions to ensure a smooth transition.

He listed a comprehensive social protection system, featuring unemployment benefits and income support during the transition, as well as skills development and training programmes to enable workers to adapt to changing job requirements.

The charter also emphasises the importance of workers’ participation and representation in decision-making processes related to the just transition.
In proposing the creation of a Just Transition Fund, the charter, jointly developed with the Friedrich Ebert Stiftung (FES) Nigeria and endorsed by prominent labour unions including the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG), the National Union of Electricity Employees (NUEE), and the National Union of Chemical, Footwear, Rubber, Leather, and Non-Metallic Product Employees (NUCFRLANMPE), highlighted the need to ensure that the management of the Fund must be transparent, accountable, and free from corruption, ensuring that affected workers receive fair protection from job losses and economic hardship.

To support workers and communities affected by the transition, the charter demands the establishment of a Tripartite Commission to facilitate social dialogue between the government, employers, and workers’ organizations. These measures will be crucial in promoting cooperation and collaboration throughout the transition process.

Moreover, the charter emphasises the importance of gender mainstreaming and social inclusion, including the promotion of women’s economic empowerment, to ensure a fair and equitable transition for all.

Tunde Salman, a consultant with FES who played a key role in the development of the Workers’ Charter, explained the Charter is a vital advocacy tool that complements existing Nigerian labour laws and international labour instruments.

Salman added that the charter provides a framework for Nigerian workers to engage in energy transition debates, ensuring their voices and concerns are integrated into policies. He noted that effective implementation will involve stakeholder engagement, performance tracking, monitoring, and periodic review to ensure a smooth transition.

“The Charter of Demand is an advocacy tool, operating at national, industry, and enterprise levels, making it an ideal resource for anyone aspiring to leadership in the transition to a low-carbon economy,” he added.

Salman also stressed that the Workers’ Charter of Demand is a significant step towards promoting social justice and fairness in the transition to a low-carbon economy.