TUC pushes stronger gender equality measures

By Emmah Uhieneh

In a strong and deliberate push toward gender inclusion and workplace equity, the President of the Trade Union Congress (TUC) of Nigeria, Comrade Festus Osifo, has reaffirmed the union’s unwavering commitment to dismantling systemic barriers that hinder women’s advancement across all sectors of the economy.

Speaking at the recent International Women’s Day celebration themed “Empowering Women: The Path to Equal Rights and Economic Justice,” Osifo underscored the urgent need for deliberate policies that guarantee equal opportunities, fair remuneration, and safe working environments for women in Nigeria.

He noted that women remain indispensable contributors to the nation’s socio-economic development, playing vital roles in workplaces, communities, and governance structures. Despite these contributions, he lamented that many women continue to grapple with persistent challenges, including wage disparities, limited access to leadership positions, workplace discrimination, and broader economic exclusion.

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According to him, the theme of this year’s celebration aligns closely with the core values and principles of the TUC, emphasizing that gender equity goes beyond moral responsibility to become a strategic imperative. He stressed that achieving gender balance is essential for fostering national development, ensuring industrial harmony, and driving sustainable economic growth.

Osifo further revealed that under his leadership, the Congress has taken intentional and bold steps to institutionalize gender inclusion within its structures. These efforts, he explained, are designed not only to improve representation but also to ensure that women actively participate in decision-making processes at both national and state levels. He added that empowering women within the labour movement ultimately strengthens the entire workforce and enhances collective bargaining outcomes.

In a move that signals a transition from advocacy to structured implementation, the TUC President disclosed plans to engage a competent consultant who will collaborate with the Secretary-General of the Congress to develop a comprehensive Gender Policy Document. This framework, he explained, will serve as a guiding instrument to institutionalize gender mainstreaming, strengthen accountability, and provide clear direction for the Congress’s actions on gender issues.

Osifo also used the occasion to commend the leadership of the TUC Women Commission, led by Comrade Esther Ahmadu, praising their resilience, dedication, and sustained advocacy for women’s rights. He acknowledged that their efforts have continued to inspire meaningful change across various sectors and states, reinforcing the broader struggle for equality and justice.