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The Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association (NECA) and the Civil Society Legislative Advocacy Centre (CISLAC) have signed a three-year Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) in Abuja to promote labour rights, improve business conditions, and support responsible governance in Nigeria.
The agreement was formalised on Tuesday at CISLAC’s headquarters in Abuja, with leaders of both organisations stressing the need for stronger collaboration between the private sector and civil society to address Nigeria’s socio-economic challenges.
Speaking at the event, the Director-General of NECA, Mr. Adewale-Smatt Oyerinde, described the pact as a “new and strategic collaboration” that would serve as a turning point for Nigeria’s future. According to him, the agreement will allow both organisations to combine their strengths in research, advocacy, and network building.
“At NECA, we serve as the voice of organised business, advocating for enterprise sustainability, decent work, economic growth, responsible business practices, and a conducive business environment. For years, we have pursued a prosperous Nigeria from the economic perspective. CISLAC, on the other hand, has championed transparency, accountability, and civil rights,” Oyerinde said.
He noted that the MoU is not just a legal document but “a symbol of mutual commitment” to solving pressing challenges. He argued that a stable and transparent environment is essential for businesses to thrive and that civil society and business interests are inseparable.
“Our joint efforts will focus on influencing policies that support both economic growth and social welfare, while promoting ethical practices and corporate citizenship. We will advocate for a fair and transparent tax system that benefits all, while tackling bottlenecks that hinder enterprise and job creation,” he added.
Oyerinde explained that the collaboration would also cover issues such as decent work, climate change, gender equality, and fair labour practices. He stressed that businesses cannot grow in isolation from citizens’ welfare, and urged stakeholders to embrace partnership over division.
On his part, the Executive Director of CISLAC, Mr. Auwal Rafsanjani, called the agreement “a covenant of trust” between employers, civil society, and Nigerian workers. He lamented the undervaluation of Nigerian workers, pointing out that teachers, health workers, and farmers continue to sustain the economy despite facing poor conditions.
“For decades, Nigerian workers have borne the burden of our nation’s growth, yet their sacrifices are often undervalued. Labour is not a commodity; workers are human beings deserving of fair wages, safe workplaces, and respect,” Rafsanjani said.
He pledged that CISLAC would continue to push for evidence-based policies, social protection, climate action, and ethical corporate practices. While promising to hold leaders accountable, he assured that civil society was ready to work with employers to create fairer and safer workplaces.
“This partnership shows that employers and civil society can find common ground. When workers thrive, businesses prosper, and society flourishes. Work is not just survival; it is dignity, justice, and hope. By empowering workers and employers, we empower Nigeria,” he declared.
Rafsanjani also expressed concern about Nigeria’s employment situation. Although official unemployment figures stand near 5 per cent, he said millions of Nigerians remain trapped in underemployment and informal jobs with little security.
Both leaders agreed that the MoU would strengthen policy advocacy, promote decent work, and provide a platform for continuous dialogue between workers and employers. They also expressed optimism that the partnership would contribute to Nigeria’s broader economic growth.
The agreement comes at a time when many Nigerians are calling for reforms in labour relations, improved workplace protections, and a business environment that attracts investment while protecting workers’ rights.
Observers believe that the joint approach could help reduce tension between workers, businesses, and government, while also promoting fairness and accountability across the economy.
