Nigeria's path to sustainable economic advancement is firmly tied to achieving and maintaining peace in the workplace, according to the nation's Labour Minister. Dr. Mohammed Dingyadi has emphasised that cooperation between workers and employers is not optional but a fundamental requirement for national development.
Workplace as a Platform for Collaboration
The Minister of Labour and Employment, Dr Mohammed Dingyadi, shared this critical message in Abuja on 23 December 2025. He was speaking at the opening of the 8th annual Registrar of Trade Unions workshop. The event carried the theme 'One Workplace, One Vision: Harmonising Interests for Industrial Peace and Sustainable Growth'.
Dingyadi argued that the workplace must be reimagined. It should be seen as a space for shared purpose and collaboration, not as an arena for constant conflict. He stated that sustainable productivity and long-term economic progress are only possible when there is mutual respect, open dialogue, and constructive engagement between labour unions and management.
Objectives of the Abuja Workshop
The minister outlined the core goals of the gathering. These objectives are designed to build a more resilient economy from the ground up:
- Promoting open and honest communication channels between workers and employers.
- Creating awareness about shared workplace goals that go beyond individual or sectional interests.
- Identifying and resolving potential sources of conflict before they can escalate into major disputes.
- Developing practical strategies that support both employee welfare and the growth of organisations.
Unions as Indispensable Partners in a Critical Era
Dr. Dingyadi highlighted that Nigeria's economy is at a critical juncture. It faces multiple challenges including global economic uncertainties, rapid technological changes, and evolving labour market dynamics. In this complex environment, he stressed that trade unions remain indispensable partners. Their role is crucial in shaping workplaces that are fair, inclusive, and ultimately more productive.
The minister issued a direct call to action. He urged labour leaders, employers, and government regulators to work collectively towards institutionalising industrial peace. He firmly believes that harmonised workplace relations are the essential fuel needed to boost productivity and sustain national growth over the long term.
Strengthening Dialogue for Economic Stability
Earlier at the event, the Permanent Secretary of the Ministry of Labour and Employment, Dr Salihu Usman, set the tone. He described the workshop as a vital platform for strengthening the relationship between labour and management. It is also a forum for deepening meaningful dialogue among all stakeholders.
Usman explained that this forum would help identify and tackle potential sources of workplace conflict proactively. He noted that building trust and collaboration is essential for achieving industrial peace, which in turn underpins broader economic stability.
He added that initiatives like this workshop are designed to equip stakeholders with practical tools for effective conflict resolution. The ultimate aim is to reposition Nigeria's entire workforce as a powerful and critical driver of national development.
