The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has called on the Federal Government to include trade unions, women, youth, persons with disabilities, and other key stakeholders in the formulation of national climate change policies.
The appeal was made during the opening session of the Post-COP 29 Review meeting held Friday in Abuja.
Speaking on behalf of the NLC General Secretary, Mr. Emmanuel Ugboaja, the Assistant General Secretary, Mr. Ismali Bello, emphasized the need to address climate injustice at the national level by involving all critical voices in climate decision-making.
The event was organised by the NLC’s Climate Change, Green Jobs and Just Transition Programme, in collaboration with the International Labour Organisation (ILO).
“We cannot decry climate injustice on the global stage while perpetuating the same exclusion at home by sidelining key groups in policy development,” Bello said.
He criticised the omission of workers’ interests in the outcomes of COP 29 and warned against diminishing the role of labour in the Just Transition Work Programme (JTWP).
He noted that although “people-centred” language was used during COP29 negotiations, it often overshadowed the specific needs of workers and their communities, who are the most affected by climate-related disruptions.
“Workers are not just stakeholders; they are on the frontline of climate impact and must be included in both planning and response,” he added.
Bello further argued that climate change is inherently a workplace issue, with emissions and climate risks often originating in or near work environments.
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He called for the revision of Nigeria’s Just Transition Guidelines to reflect the realities and contributions of the working class.
ILO representative, Ms. Inviolata Chinyangarara, supported the NLC’s stance, stating that the role of trade unions is essential in shaping fair climate and employment policies.
She urged unions to build the capacity to engage effectively in policy dialogues and influence decisions on green jobs and sustainable labour markets.
Also speaking at the forum, Mr. Girzo Adamu, Director of Special Duties and Projects at the Ministry of Labour and Employment, acknowledged past oversights in the development of the Just Transition Guidelines.
He assured participants that the document is now 80% complete and that the government remains committed to incorporating labour’s concerns.
Climate change consultant Dr. Peter Tarfa encouraged the NLC to actively participate in the drafting of Nigeria’s Nationally Determined Contributions (NDC) 3.0, which is scheduled for 2025.
He also advised labour groups to prepare strategic work plans and conduct thorough research ahead of the upcoming COP conference in Brazil to ensure effective engagement and negotiation.
The meeting marks a continued effort by organised labour and development partners to ensure a fair and inclusive transition to a green economy in Nigeria.
NAN
