Nigeria Backs Inclusive AI Policies to Protect Jobs, Workers’ Rights at ILO Conference
Oru Leonard
Nigeria has called for the adoption of inclusive and human-centred artificial intelligence (AI) policies that safeguard jobs and workers’ rights while leveraging technology to promote economic growth and decent work.
The call was made by the Minister of Labour and Employment, Dr. Muhammad Maigari Dingyadi, during the 114th Session of the International Labour Conference in Geneva, Switzerland, where he delivered Nigeria’s statement on the report of the Director-General of the International Labour Organization titled “A Moment of Choice: Harnessing Artificial Intelligence for Decent Work.”
Dr. Dingyadi described the report’s theme as timely, noting that rapid advances in AI are transforming labour markets, employment relationships, and workplace practices globally. While acknowledging AI’s potential to drive innovation, productivity, and economic expansion, he warned that the technology also poses risks such as job displacement, widening inequalities, and the erosion of the human role in certain sectors.
“The world is moving forward at a rapid pace, underpinned by advances in AI, and we as an organisation must match that pace,” the minister said, stressing the need for a balanced approach that maximises the benefits of AI while protecting workers and preserving the gains of decent work.
Highlighting Nigeria’s commitment to digital transformation, Dingyadi pointed to the Federal Government’s investments in innovation and technology, including the establishment of the Federal Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy to accelerate digital development and boost economic competitiveness.
He noted that Nigeria has made significant progress in automating public service processes and integrating digital technologies into governance and service delivery, with AI increasingly supporting these reforms. According to him, platform-based work is also expanding, creating new opportunities and challenges for labour regulation.
The minister welcomed ongoing discussions within the ILO on decent work in the platform economy and underscored the importance of developing labour standards that adequately protect workers in emerging forms of employment.
On institutional reforms, Dingyadi reaffirmed Nigeria’s support for the democratisation of the ILO’s governance structures. He called for the ratification of the 1986 Amendment to the ILO Constitution and urged a review of the criteria used to determine countries of Chief Industrial Importance to ensure equitable regional representation.
He maintained that such reforms would enhance inclusivity, transparency, and fairness within the organisation.
The minister also urged member states to align the ILO Centenary Declaration and the Global Coalition for Social Justice with national development priorities, ensuring that technological advancement contributes to social justice, sustainable development, and decent work for all.
