The federal government has called for the adoption of inclusive and human-centred artificial intelligence (AI) policies to safeguard workers’ rights, reduce the risk of job losses, and ensure that technological advancement does not come at the expense of decent employment.
Minister of Labour and Employment, Dr. Muhammad Dingyadi, made the call on Thursday during the 114th Session of the International Labour Conference in Geneva, Switzerland.
He spoke while responding to a report presented by the Chairperson of the Governing Body and the Director-General of the International Labour Organisation (ILO), titled “A Moment of Choice: Harnessing Artificial Intelligence for Decent Work.”
Dingyadi said the rapid growth of artificial intelligence is already reshaping global labour markets, changing workplace practices and redefining employment relationships across sectors.
According to him, while AI presents major opportunities for innovation, productivity growth and economic expansion, it also introduces serious risks that governments and labour institutions must urgently address.
“The world is moving forward at a rapid pace, underpinned by advances in AI, and we as an organisation must match that pace. While welcoming the positive transformations AI offers, we are also pondering the uncertainties it connotes,” he said.
He warned that although AI may create new categories of jobs, it could also displace existing ones, especially in sectors heavily dependent on routine and administrative tasks.
“These shifts, despite their benefits, also cast a dark cloud of uncertainty. Where AI creates new jobs, there may be job losses. Where digital and AI infrastructures are created, there may be a loss of the traditional role and value of the human factor in the work process,” the minister added.
Dingyadi stressed the need for a balanced approach that ensures technological progress does not undermine social protections or the dignity of work.
“We therefore need a balanced approach that ensures that, while harnessing the benefits of AI, the attendant risks do not rob our societies of the gains of decent work,” he said.
He commended the International Labour Organisation for its continued efforts to strengthen global labour standards amid fast-changing economic and technological conditions.
Highlighting Nigeria’s response to digital transformation, the minister said the Federal Government had created the Ministry of Communications, Innovation and Digital Economy to drive policies that support technological growth and competitiveness.
He noted that Nigeria is already deploying digital tools and artificial intelligence in public service operations, including the automation of civil service processes and improved communication systems.
“I’m also pleased to inform you that Nigeria is steadily harnessing the gains of this initiative in our Public Service. There is the service-wide automation of civil service processes and communication, with AI playing a significant role. Additionally, platform work is gaining ground,” he said.
Dingyadi also supported ongoing international discussions on regulating platform-based work, stressing the need to ensure fair treatment and adequate protection for workers in the digital economy.
Beyond artificial intelligence, he renewed Nigeria’s call for reforms within the ILO, including the ratification of the 1986 Amendment to its Constitution and a review of criteria for determining countries of chief industrial importance.
He argued that such reforms would enhance fairness, inclusivity and balanced representation within the organisation’s governance structure.
The minister further urged member states to align global labour initiatives such as the ILO Centenary Declaration and the Global Coalition for Social Justice with national development priorities.
The discussions at the conference come amid growing global concern over how artificial intelligence will reshape employment, productivity and economic systems in both developed and developing countries.
While AI is expected to improve efficiency and create new industries, labour experts warn that without proper safeguards, it could deepen inequality and disrupt millions of jobs worldwide.
For Nigeria, the challenge is particularly significant as the country seeks to expand its digital economy, boost innovation and create employment opportunities for its rapidly growing youth population.