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In a bid to address the recurring wave of industrial actions by trade unions, the Federal Government has approved the National Industrial Relations Policy (NIRP) 2025. The new policy aims to regulate trade union activities and foster harmonious relations between employers and employees.
The approval comes as the National Association of Nigerian Nurses and Midwives, Federal Health Institutions Sector (NANNM-FHI) enters the third day of a nationwide warning strike. The Federal Government has confirmed the withdrawal of the controversial circular that triggered the strike and is scheduled to meet with representatives of the striking nurses and doctors today.
Speaking after the Federal Executive Council (FEC) meeting chaired by President Bola Tinubu, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Mohammed Idris, said the new policy was necessary to manage Nigeria’s industrial relations landscape more effectively.
“This policy is essential for regulating the conduct of various trade unions in the country,” he said. “Frequent industrial actions over the years have stemmed from the absence of a comprehensive national policy. The FEC has approved this new framework, developed by the Minister of Labour and Employment.”
Idris added that the policy would encourage a seamless workload, strengthen social dialogue, and promote tripartite cooperation among the government, employers, and workers. He also noted it would align Nigeria’s labour practices with global standards, including those set by the International Labour Organisation (ILO).
He acknowledged the inadequacy of existing labour laws in terms of enforcement and stressed the need for this national policy to enhance compliance and accountability.
Addressing the ongoing crisis in the health sector, the Coordinating Minister of Health and Social Welfare, Prof. Ali Pate, said concerns raised by professional groups had been acknowledged and were being addressed.
“We are currently negotiating revised allowances in a transparent manner,” he said. “Not all the issues are financial. We’re also resolving matters such as the centralisation of nurses’ postings. The government remains committed to respecting and supporting health workers.”
Prof. Pate also announced the Federal Government’s approval of a new Oncology Centre at the University College Hospital (UCH), Ibadan, reaffirming the administration’s commitment to transforming the healthcare sector.
Meanwhile, tensions persist between organised labour and the government. Leaders of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC) have accused the government and security agencies of interfering in trade union affairs and attempting to sow division between the two labour centres.
Speaking during a courtesy visit by the leadership of the Radio, Television and Arts Workers Union (RATTAWU), TUC President Festus Osifo, represented by TUC Secretary-General Dr. Nuhu Toro, said:
“We believe in solidarity and collective action. There are efforts by employers and managers to divide our ranks using ‘divide and rule’ tactics, but together we can overcome these challenges and advocate effectively for Nigerian workers.”
NLC President Joe Ajaero echoed this sentiment, condemning alleged government interference in union matters.
“It is unheard of in other parts of the world for the government to meddle in the internal affairs of trade unions,” Ajaero said, adding that the ILO is monitoring the government’s actions closely. “Trade unions are governed by internal rules consistent with international labour standards.”
He also criticised government involvement in union-related funds, citing the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF) and the National Pension Commission (PenCom). Ajaero further condemned union members who engage security agencies in internal union disputes for personal benefit.
On the ongoing strike by health workers, NANNM-FHI National Chairman, Morakinyo-Olajide Rilwan, insisted the strike would not be suspended based on promises alone.
“That’s what the government always asks—to suspend strikes while they review our demands. We’re not comfortable with that approach. We need concrete action on parts of our demands before any suspension is considered.”
He stressed that nurses had been patient and compassionate, adding that strike action was a last resort after prolonged delays.
“Nurses love and care deeply for their patients. But we have waited too long. A Memorandum of Understanding must be signed before we consider ending the strike.”
Rilwan expressed frustration over recent inconclusive meetings, citing the absence of key stakeholders such as the Minister of Health and the Head of the Civil Service.
Despite the stalemate, the Federal Government maintains that the issues are resolvable and reiterated its commitment to constructive dialogue, in line with President Tinubu’s directive to engage meaningfully with organised labour.
