The Minister of Labour and Employment, Alhaji Muhammadu Maigari Dingyadi, has underscored the importance of a well-informed and empowered workforce in fostering a competitive and resilient nation.

Speaking at the 7th Registrar of Trade Unions National Workshop in Abuja, Dingyadi described the labour movement as pivotal to achieving national progress through harmonious industrial relations.

He said, “The cardinal goals of decent work and harmonious industrial relations cannot be achieved without the contributions of the labour movement. Your roles as agents of change are vital to our national progress.”

The workshop, themed “Best Practices for Social Partners Engagement in a Challenging Economy”, provided a platform for policymakers, labour leaders, and industry captains to address pressing challenges in the labour sector. Topics ranged from the legality of strikes and the implementation of the new minimum wage to the future of work in an unstable economy.

Dingyadi commended the Registrar of Trade Unions for sustaining the annual workshop, describing it as critical for fostering dialogue and mitigating industrial disputes.

He remarked, “The sustenance of this programme underscores our ministry’s dedication to strengthening the labour sector through professional service delivery of the highest quality, meeting global standards, and aligning with international expectations.”

Despite economic difficulties, the event recorded significant participation, demonstrating the unwavering commitment of stakeholders to national development.

Reflecting on previous workshops, Dingyadi highlighted progress in areas such as capacity building, labour law reforms, and the establishment of stronger social protection measures.

However, he stressed the need for more consistent policy implementation and improved occupational safety frameworks.

“These efforts are non-negotiable if we are to create a conducive environment for workers and employers alike,” he said.

The workshop explored innovative strategies to strengthen collective bargaining and resolve industrial disputes. Participants were urged to contribute meaningfully to discussions on balancing workers’ rights with workplace stability amidst economic uncertainties.

In his remarks, the Director overseeing the Office of the Permanent Secretary, Mr John Nyamali, lauded the commitment of labour stakeholders.

He described the workshop as a milestone in addressing emerging trends in the world of work. “This is your programme, a platform where we collectively shape the future of labour administration for a greater Nigeria,” Nyamali noted.

Both Dingyadi and Nyamali emphasized the role of social dialogue in fostering industrial peace and harmony.

The Minister expressed optimism about the resolutions reached, promising they would serve as a blueprint for enhancing labour practices in Nigeria.

As the event drew to a close, stakeholders hailed the workshop as a significant step towards addressing challenges in the labour sector. The shared resolve to promote collaboration and innovation suggested that the country’s labour administration system is poised for transformative change, even amidst economic turbulence.