A Nigerian healthcare workers’ union has sharply criticized the federal government’s newly announced National Industrial Relations Policy, alleging it undermines fundamental labor rights guaranteed under international law. The Joint Health Sector Unions (JOHESU), a coalition representing health workers, argued the policy erodes protections for freedom of association and the right to strike—principles enshrined in the International Labour Organization’s (ILO) Convention 87, which Nigeria ratified in 1960.
The union’s leadership, including National Chairman Ado Minjibir and Secretary Martins Egbanubi, outlined their concerns in a formal response to remarks by Information Minister Mohammed Idris, who discussed the policy after a July 31 Federal Executive Council meeting. JOHESU contends the policy disproportionately targets workers and unions while deflecting accountability for labor disputes onto organized labor. “It is unfortunate that the ruling class continues to blame unions for industrial actions rather than addressing systemic issues,” the statement read.
Central to the criticism is the perceived contradiction between the policy and Nigeria’s obligations under ILO Convention 87, which protects the right to form unions and engage in collective bargaining. JOHESU emphasized that these rights were domestically ratified, making their alleged restriction a breach of national and international law. While not opposed to modernizing labor relations frameworks, the union called for broader stakeholder input, urging the government to convene the National Labour Advisory Council (NLAC)—a tripartite body involving government, employers, and workers—to review the policy.
The NLAC’s activation, JOHESU argued, would align Nigeria’s labor practices with global standards and ensure balanced negotiations. The controversy arises amid longstanding tensions between Nigerian unions and authorities over wage disparities, working conditions, and frequent strikes in critical sectors like healthcare. Critics of the policy fear it could further strain labor relations, particularly if perceived as suppressing lawful dissent.
No immediate response has been issued by the federal government, leaving unresolved questions about how the policy will address labor rights protections or facilitate dialogue. The dispute underscores broader challenges in reconciling domestic governance with international labor norms, as Nigeria navigates economic reforms and social equity demands.
