The Minister of Labour and Employment, Dr Muhammad Dingyadi, has highlighted the challenge of casualisation, describing it as a growing threat to economic inclusion, decent work standards, and social justice.
He was speaking at the second edition of the annual Labour Correspondents Association of Nigeria (LACAN) Conference held in Abuja.
He explained that insecure and poorly paid work arrangements weaken productivity and national development, adding that the Ministry has intensified labour inspections and engagements to enforce compliance with labour standards and regularise non-standard employment.
Dr Dingyadi also noted that the ongoing review of Nigeria’s labour laws aims to modernise the regulatory framework in line with international standards and global labour trends, including the rise of platform-based work.
He emphasised the importance of fair labour migration, highlighting its potential as a tool for national development when properly managed.
The Minister described the conference theme, “Local Content, Casualisation and Fair Labour Migration,” as timely and strategic, noting that it aligns with the country’s development priorities.
He stressed that local content is both an economic policy and a reflection of national sovereignty aimed at ensuring Nigerians play active roles in industries operating within the country.
According to him, the Federal Government, through various policy frameworks including the Local Content Act, is committed to strengthening domestic capacity across critical sectors.
Dr Dingyadi stated that the Ministry’s collaboration with institutions such as the National Directorate of Employment (NDE), Industrial Training Fund (ITF), and the Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA) has enhanced technical and vocational capacity to ensure Nigerian workers remain competitive.
He added that true local content must go beyond numbers to ensure quality and dignity of labour.
The Minister said Nigeria is committed to protecting workers’ rights, promoting fair labour practices, and advancing sustainable development in a globalised economy.
Dr Dingyadi acknowledged that labour correspondents under LACAN have consistently contributed to shaping public understanding of labour and employment issues in Nigeria.
He commended LACAN for its consistent efforts in deepening public understanding of labour and employment issues in Nigeria.
He said: “Through balanced reporting and engagement with key stakeholders, your Association continues to play a vital role in shaping national conversations around decent work, industrial harmony, and inclusive economic growth.”
In his remarks, Acting Chairman of LACAN, Patrick Abulu, urged journalists and stakeholders to approach the conference with commitment to national progress and advocacy for equitable labour practices.
He said the conference theme, “Improving Internal Resource Mobilisation for Financing Anti-Poverty and Inequality Interventions in Nigeria,” reflects the nation’s urgent need to strengthen internal economic systems and reduce dependence on external support for development financing.
Abulu stressed the need to block revenue loopholes, promote fair taxation, improve governance, and channel resources toward human capital and social protection initiatives.
He added that addressing casualisation and unfair labour recruitment practices is fundamental to reducing poverty and inequality.
Abulu encouraged participants to engage constructively and boldly to produce a meaningful communiqué that would serve as a national roadmap for action.