Whether you are starting your first job or you are a seasoned pro, understanding your rights and responsibilities at work is crucial. Here we dive into some key aspects of Nigerian Labour Law that every employer and employee should know. Trust us, this stuff is important!
1. No Kids Allowed (in the Workforce)
Legal Basis: Labour Act, Section 59
Alright, let us talk about child labor. It simply is not allowed in Nigeria, and for good reason. The law is clear:
- Under 12? Sorry, no work for you (except light family house chores).
- 12 to 15? You can work, but only under special circumstances.
- Under 18? Anything dangerous is off-limits.
Why does this matter? It keeps kids safe and in school, where they belong. Employers, take note: hiring kids can land you in trouble with the law, with fines and even criminal charges.
2. Contract in Writing
Legal Basis: Labour Act, Section 7
Ever had a boss promise you something and then conveniently forget? Or an employee that assured you s/he can speak french but is always MIA when the french client comes visiting. That is why written contracts are a must. Within three months of starting a job, a written contract should be in existence that spells out:
- Job title and duties
- Remuneration amount and payment date
- Work hours
- Vacation time
- Other important details
This protects both the employee and the employer. No more “he said, she said” drama!
3. Intellectual Property Rights
Legal Basis: Copyright Act, Cap C28, LFN 2004
Here is something to think about: if an employee creates something awesome at work (like a cool app or a catchy jingle), who owns it? Usually, it’s the company. This is called intellectual property (IP) rights.
So as an employee, if you are planning to be the next tech mogul, make sure you understand your company’s policy on IP. You might want to negotiate this in your contract order to avoid stories that touch!
4. You Can’t Just Get Fired for No Reason
An employer can’t just kick an employee out of work without following due process and an employee can’t just decide not to show up at work without following due process. They both need to give notice to the other party based on how long the employment contract has been in existence:
- Up to 3 months: 1 day notice
- Up to 2 years: 1 week notice
- Up to 5 years: 2 weeks notice
- 5 years or more: 1 month notice
If you think you have been unfairly dismissed, you have got the right to challenge it. Stand up for yourself!
5. Staying Safe on the Job
Accidents happen, but if you get hurt at work, you shouldn’t have to foot the bill. That’s where the Employee’s Compensation Act comes in. Here’s the deal:
- The employer remits 1% of the employee’s salary to a compensation fund.
- If the employee gets injured or sick because of work, s/he is covered for medical expenses and maybe even lost wages.
- In the worst-case scenario, the family is taken care of in case of death. When the family is taken care of, they have no right to bring any legal claim against the employer.
Employers, make sure you are following these rules. It’s not just the law—it’s the right thing to do.
Remember, knowing your rights is the first step to a fair and safe workplace. If something does not seem right, speak up! And if you are an employer, following these rules is not just about avoiding trouble—it’s about creating a workplace where everyone can thrive.
Stay informed, stay involved, and soar at your career!
