1. Employment Contracts Must Be in Writing

Employers are required to provide employees with a written contract within three months of starting employment.  This contract should detail job roles, wages, working hours, and other terms.  

2. Right to Fair Wages and the National Minimum Wage

Employees are entitled to receive fair wages, with the current national minimum wage set at ₦30,000 per month.  

3. Entitlement to Paid Leave

After 12 months of continuous service, employees are entitled to at least six working days of paid annual leave.  Additionally, employees are entitled to up to 12 days of paid sick leave per year, provided a registered medical practitioner certifies the illness.  

4. Maternity Leave Rights

Female employees are entitled to at least 12 weeks of maternity leave (six weeks before and six weeks after childbirth) with at least 50% of their wages, provided they have been employed for at least six months.  

5. Safe and Healthy Work Environment

Employers are obligated to provide a safe and healthy work environment, adhering to safety standards to prevent workplace injuries and diseases.  

6. Protection Against Discrimination

Employees are protected against discrimination based on gender, age, religion, disability, or HIV status.  The HIV and AIDS (Anti-Discrimination) Act 2014 specifically prohibits discrimination against individuals based on their HIV status.  

7. Right to Join Trade Unions

Employees have the right to join trade unions and participate in collective bargaining.  The Trade Unions Act governs the formation and operation of trade unions in Nigeria.  

8. Employee Compensation for Work-Related Injuries

Under the Employees’ Compensation Act 2010, employees who suffer work-related injuries or occupational diseases are entitled to compensation.  Employers are required to contribute to the Employees’ Compensation Fund.  

9. Pension Contributions

The Pension Reform Act 2014 mandates that employers and employees contribute a percentage of the employee's monthly emoluments to a retirement savings account.  

10. Procedures for Termination of Employment

Employers must provide appropriate notice before terminating an employment contract.  The length of notice depends on the duration of employment, ranging from one day for employment less than three months to one month for employment exceeding five years.