NECA Warns of Economic Instability as Labour Relations Deteriorate

By Diafa Doubra,

The Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA) has expressed deep concern over the country’s worsening labour relations, warning that the breakdown in dialogue between the government and organized labour could further threaten Nigeria’s fragile economic stability.

In a statement released on Thursday, NECA Director-General, Adewale-Smatt Oyerinde, cautioned that persistent industrial unrest and confrontational union actions could undermine investor confidence and productivity across key sectors. He urged both the Federal Government and labour unions to prioritize negotiation and collaboration rather than confrontation.

Oyerinde noted that the current tension between the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), the Trade Union Congress (TUC), and the government has already disrupted economic activities in several states. He emphasized that only mutual respect, transparency, and effective engagement would ensure sustainable labour peace and long-term economic growth.

NECA also appealed to the government to address the root causes of workers’ grievances, particularly issues of wage stagnation, rising inflation, and poor working conditions, saying that economic recovery cannot thrive amid constant labour conflicts.