CASUALIZATION OF EMPLOYMENT IN NIGERIA: AN ANALYSIS

Abstract

Abstract
The casualization of labour in Nigeria has become widespread with employers in both public and private
sectors increasingly relying on casual workers to cut cost on the basis of the privailing economic
challenges. This practice has led to conflicts between workers, labour unions, and employers. Employers
view casualization as flexible and cost-effective, while labour unions argue it infringes on workers' rights
to unionize and engage in collective bargaining. Casual workers face significant disadvantages compared
to permanent employees, including lack of benefits, statutory protection, and lower pay. They are often
deprived of compensation for injuries, union memberships, collective bargaining rights, and social security
benefits. This paper analysed the rise of casualization in Nigeria, its legal framework and its adequacy. It
identified massive unemployment and globalization as key factors driving casualization. It highlighted the
precarious nature of casual work, which leads to instability, lack of essential benefits, and vulnerability to
exploitation. The paper submitted that the absence of enforceable labour laws for casual employment in
Nigeria exacerbates these issues, contributing to poverty and socioeconomic inequality. It recommended
inter alia that Nigeria's labour laws, particularly the Labour Act 2004, be amended to align with
international standards and adequately regulate casualization in line with the lessons from other
jurisdictions like the USA, China and Ghana.