Employers, Policy Leaders Push Reforms to Strengthen Labour Justice

The Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association and labour policy stakeholders have called for urgent improvements to dispute-resolution systems, warning that inefficient labour justice processes could undermine investment and industrial harmony.

At a policy dialogue on workplace justice, speakers from government, the judiciary, security agencies, academia and international organisations emphasised the need for faster procedures, modernised legislation and stronger mediation frameworks.

Participants noted that technological change, remote work, platform employment and economic pressures are reshaping labour relations, demanding more adaptive legal systems.

They stressed that accessible and credible dispute-resolution institutions are essential not only for worker protection but also for business competitiveness and investor confidence.

Stakeholders also highlighted prevention strategies, including stronger HR systems, improved communication and effective collective bargaining, as the most sustainable way to reduce disputes before they escalate.

The forum concluded that strengthening labour courts, arbitration panels and mediation structures will be vital to maintaining stability in Nigeria’s evolving labour market.