The Non-Academic Staff Union of Educational and Associated Institutions (NASU) has highlighted key strategies for liberating workers from the worsening economic crisis in Nigeria. According to NASU, the critical measures include skill development and education, entrepreneurship, participation in the informal economy, advocacy and unionisation, and government interventions.
NASU’s General Secretary, Prince Peters Adeyemi, shared these insights while presenting at the Labour Writers’ of Nigeria (LAWAN) 2024 Workshop in Lagos. He pointed out that workers in emerging economies like Nigeria often face unstable employment, low wages, and poor working conditions. He stressed that many workers are employed in the informal economy, which lacks government regulation and basic worker protections.
Skill Development Prince Adeyemi, represented by former Union President Ivor Takor, emphasized the importance of access to education and skill development programs. He noted that these programs enhance employability and facilitate transitions to better-paying sectors. Vocational training, being more accessible and shorter in duration than traditional education, is particularly effective for upskilling or reskilling workers while managing other responsibilities.
Entrepreneurship Encouraging entrepreneurship is seen as a powerful strategy to provide alternative employment opportunities and drive economic growth. Adeyemi advocated for supporting microfinance initiatives, establishing business incubators, and implementing supportive policies to help individuals start and grow businesses. This approach not only creates jobs but also fosters innovation, diversifies the economy, and reduces poverty.
Informal Economy The informal economy is crucial for providing income and survival for many workers, especially in regions with scarce formal employment opportunities. To improve the livelihoods of informal workers, Adeyemi suggested developing policies that offer access to credit, legal recognition, and other forms of support. Legal recognition can facilitate inclusion in social protection schemes, providing informal workers with benefits such as health insurance and pensions.
Unionisation Strengthening labour unions and advocating for workers’ rights are vital for improving working conditions and wages. Adeyemi highlighted the role of unions in collective bargaining and social dialogue to negotiate fairer treatment, safer workplaces, and better pay. In emerging economies, unions provide a collective voice for workers, pushing for higher minimum wages, safer conditions, and access to social protections.
Overall, NASU calls for comprehensive efforts to address the challenges faced by workers and improve their economic security and opportunities.