Stakeholders have agreed to work together to ensure a stronger migration governance frameworks that will protect workers, empower unions and contribute to sustainable development.
This position was canvassed at a three day strategic workshop of the Trade Union Migration Forum on Regional Labour Migration Governance, organised by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) held in Abuja , North Central geopolitical zone of Nigeria.
Speaking at the workshop, the Director ILO Country Office for Nigeria, Ghana, Liberia, Sierra Leone, and Liaison Office ECOWAS, Vennesa Phala said labour migration is a significant phenomenon within the ECOWAS region, driven by economic disparities and the pursuit of employment opportunities.
She said Nigeria is featured significantly as a major country of origin, a key transit hub, and also an important destination for migrant workers within the region.
The ILO director noted that the ECOWAS Free Movement Protocol, which allows citizens of ECOWAS member states to travel, reside, and establish businesses without visas, exemplifies the region’s commitment to fostering integration and economic cooperation.
She added that the protocol is particularly significant for Nigeria, ECOWAS’ largest economy and population centre.
“Yet, like several member states, Nigeria continues to face challenges in implementation, ranging from administrative bottlenecks to gaps in stakeholder coordination.
“Addressing these challenges through measures such as popularising the protocol, embedding it within Nigeria’s national labour migration frameworks, and strengthening the capacity of trade unions, employers, and government institutions will be critical to realising the full benefits of free movement for Nigeria and for the region as a whole,” she said.