The Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment, in collaboration with the Employers’ Association for Private Employment Agencies of Nigeria (EAPEAN), on Tuesday commenced the 11th Annual National Workshop for Private Employment Agencies and other Employers of Labour in Lagos.
The two-day event, themed “Shaping the Future of Employment Services: Technology, Rights, and Responsible Practices,” is taking place at the NECA House Auditorium, Alausa, Ikeja.
In his welcome address, the President of EAPEAN, Dr. Olufemi Ogunlowo expressed appreciation to the Ministry for its continued partnership in strengthening Nigeria’s labour administration system. He stressed the importance of innovation and responsible recruitment in an era defined by rapid digital transformation and evolving work models.
Ogunlowo, who was represented by his Deputy in EAPEAN, Chief Amb. Nzeribe Okegbue PhD noted that the theme reflected the realities of a changing labour market influenced by globalisation, technology, and demographic shifts.
“As employment service providers and employers, we must rethink our strategies, embrace innovation, and uphold fair recruitment practices that protect the dignity and rights of workers,” he said.
He also urged the Ministry to expedite the transition to an electronic platform for recruiters’ licence applications and renewals, while intensifying inspections to curb the operations of unlicensed employment agencies. Ogunlowo further highlighted EAPEAN’s ongoing capacity-building programmes aimed at bridging knowledge gaps, promoting decent work, and ensuring compliance with national labour laws.
Delivering the opening remarks on behalf of the Minister and the Permanent Secretary, the representative of the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment reaffirmed the government’s commitment to strengthening collaboration with private employment agencies to boost productivity and protect workers’ rights.
He disclosed that the digitalisation of the licensing process for Private Employment Agencies (PEAs) was now indispensable. “The Ministry is actively working to ensure that the licensing process is fully digitalised to promote transparency, efficiency, and accountability,” he said.
He reiterated the Ministry’s mission to develop a labour market system that enhances productivity, safeguards rights, and promotes professional practices rooted in the principles of decent work.
The first technical session of the workshop, facilitated by human resource expert Mr. Solomon Adebosin, focused on “Digital Disruption in HR and Recruitment: Changing the Way We Find, Hire, and Grow People in Nigeria.”
Adebosin described digital disruption as a major transformation of traditional work practices through technology. He urged organisations to adopt proactive recruitment strategies rather than reactive hiring. “Recruiting shouldn’t be done in a hurry. Proper planning and the use of digital tools help organisations find the right people efficiently,” he advised.
The second session, led by Mr. Olawale Shado, a former Zonal Coordinator and legal practitioner, examined “Upholding Freedom of Association and the Right to Collective Bargaining in Triangular Employment Relationships.”
Shado stressed that freedom of association is a fundamental right guaranteed under Nigeria’s Constitution, allowing workers to form or join trade unions without interference. He explained that collective bargaining enables employers and workers’ representatives to negotiate employment terms, fostering industrial harmony.
He also clarified the legal limits of union membership among senior and managerial staff, noting that human resources and accounting officers typically represent management interests.
The workshop continues on Wednesday with further discussions on responsible employment practices and the future of digital labour regulation in Nigeria’s private sector.
