Nigeria has been listed among the world’s 10 worst countries for workers’ rights, according to the 2025 International Trade Union Confederation (ITUC) Global Rights Index. The damning report places Nigeria in the same category as countries like Myanmar, Egypt, Bangladesh, and the Philippines, citing a pattern of widespread violations including the suppression of strikes, denial of collective bargaining rights, and restricted access to justice for workers.

This ranking highlights serious concerns about labor conditions and civil liberties in Africa’s largest economy, and raises questions about the Nigerian government’s commitment to international labor standards and democratic participation in the workplace.

Key Findings: Nigeria’s Labor Environment Under Scrutiny

The ITUC Global Rights Index ranks 149 countries based on their respect for workers’ rights, using criteria such as the right to strike, union activity, freedom of association, and protection against discrimination and violence at work.

In Nigeria’s case, the report cited:

• Violent crackdowns on lawful protests and strikes, particularly by labor unions

• State interference in union operations and elections

• Dismissal and harassment of union leaders and members

• Failure to implement collective bargaining agreements, even in the public sector

• Legal restrictions that criminalize industrial action

The ITUC notes that security forces were used to disperse or intimidate union-led demonstrations, especially those related to wage demands, fuel subsidy removals, and pension arrears.

Not Just Numbers: Real Consequences for Nigerian Workers

For millions of Nigerian workers, the report reflects everyday realities of poor pay, unsafe working conditions, and limited legal recourse. Recent nationwide strikes—organized by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC), have been met with government resistance, delayed negotiations, and at times, judicial orders banning planned protests.

Workers in education, healthcare, and aviation sectors have repeatedly faced delays in salary payments and unfair dismissals after striking for improved working conditions.

“When we strike, the government goes to court to declare it illegal instead of addressing the real issues,” said a civil servant in Abuja. “This report only confirms what Nigerian workers already know—we have no protection.”

A Global Trend—and a Warning

The 2025 Global Rights Index warns of a global deterioration in labor rights, with governments and corporations increasingly adopting policies that undermine democratic voice at work. Nigeria’s inclusion in the bottom tier represents part of this wider trend, but also amplifies the urgency for local reform.

Sharan Burrow, former ITUC General Secretary, warned that:

“When workers can’t organize, bargain, or strike, inequality grows. Nigeria must choose whether it will uphold dignity in work or allow further erosion of its democratic foundations.”

What Can Be Done?

Labor advocates and civil society organizations in Nigeria have urged the federal government to take urgent and concrete steps to address these violations:

• Amend labor laws to ensure full protection of union activity and peaceful protest

• End judicial harassment of union leaders and repeal anti-strike injunctions

• Establish independent labor courts to handle disputes swiftly and fairly

• Respect collective bargaining agreements in both public and private sectors

• Promote social dialogue between government, labor, and employers

There are also calls for stronger regional enforcement of labor standards by bodies such as the African Union and the Economic Community of West African States (ECOWAS).

Conclusion: A Wake-Up Call for Reform

Being ranked among the worst countries for workers’ rights is not just a reputational blow—it is a reflection of deeper systemic issues that hurt Nigeria’s economic productivity, social cohesion, and international credibility. As the country grapples with unemployment, inflation, and widespread discontent, ignoring the voice of its workers will only widen the trust gap between citizens and the state.

The ITUC’s 2025 report should serve as a call to action for policymakers, employers, and civil society to rebuild a fairer, safer, and more just labor system one where workers are not punished for demanding the rights they are entitled to.

Published on Xamblog.com – Your platform for in-depth reports on governance, labor, and social justice across Nigeria and beyond.

Last Updated on July 3, 2025 by kingstar