The Director-General of the International Labour Organisation, Gilbert Houngbo, has called for a global movement to enhance sustainability in order to combat poverty and social injustice. In a recent report commemorating the World Day for Social Justice, titled “The World Needs a Strong and Sustained Dose of Social Justice,” he highlighted that the combined effects of COVID-19, geopolitical turmoil, economic crises, and natural disasters have significantly hindered social progress. Houngbo noted, “When we look at the current labour market trends, the picture is grim, with global employment growth projected to be only 1.0 percent in 2023, less than half the level of 2022.” He emphasized that over 200 million workers live in absolute poverty, particularly those in small and micro-enterprises, which have been severely impacted. He asserted that a strong and sustained commitment to social justice is essential for fostering fair and peaceful societies, and announced that the International Labour Organisation plans to launch a Global Coalition for Social Justice in 2023.
Akeem Ambali, the President of the Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees, pointed out significant gaps in the structural policies governing social welfare and justice in Nigeria. As a professional social worker, he underscored the critical role of social welfare policy and legislation in the development of communities. Ambali stated, “The challenges and tensions we face stem from Nigeria’s lack of appropriate social welfare legislation and policies.” He criticized the government’s unorganized approach to social justice, social welfare, and legislation, arguing that social justice for workers must include a comprehensive social security plan. He emphasized that vulnerable workers should be integrated into a social network that addresses welfare policies, including fair remuneration. He called for the implementation of the national minimum wage law, asserting that workers deserve compensation that reflects their contributions.
Ambali also raised concerns about the violation of labor laws by state actors and employers, who often neglect to remit pension contributions or invest them appropriately. He noted that employers, who are required to contribute 10 percent to pension funds, frequently default on these obligations without facing consequences. He urged for the strengthening of the Pension Commission, advocating for the political will to prosecute those who fail to comply with pension deduction remittance laws. Furthermore, he stressed the importance of reviewing the Factory and Industrial Act to enhance worker protection in industrial settings, ensuring safe working environments free from pollution and hazards. In cases of industrial accidents, he insisted that appropriate compensation must be provided to the families of affected workers.
Ambali also called for a deliberate social welfare policy that promotes corporate social responsibility. He proposed that industries operating within local communities should prioritize hiring local residents, suggesting that 70 percent of junior staff and 35 percent of senior staff should be sourced from the surrounding area. This approach, he argued, would create employment opportunities for local individuals and contribute to the growth of the local economy, ultimately benefiting national economic development. He condemned issues such as illegal dismissal, workplace abuse, and sexual harassment, emphasizing the need for proper prosecution of offenders to protect the integrity of women workers.
In a related statement, Senior Advocate of Nigeria Adetunji Oyeyipo highlighted that social justice and equity are vital for the nation’s health, as they foster peace and prosperity. He remarked, “You cannot prosper in an atmosphere of acrimony and dissatisfaction.” Oyeyipo stressed the importance of social justice, asserting that it is as crucial as generating revenue for the government, if not more so. He concluded that true national growth can only occur in an environment characterized by peace and fairness.
Comments are closed for this story.