ILO Reports 85.2% of Nigerians Lack Social Protection

The International Labour Organisation (ILO) has reported that 85.2% of Nigerians are without effective social protection coverage, leaving them vulnerable to poverty and economic shocks. Only 14.8% of the population is effectively covered, according to Dr. Vanessa Phala, ILO director for Nigeria, Ghana, Liberia, Sierra Leone, and Liaison office for ECOWAS.

This alarming statistic was presented during a national social protection statistics dialogue and data collection engagement in Abuja. Dr. Phala stressed the importance of reliable data and stronger institutions to close this significant gap.

The ILO, through the European Union-funded Supporting Sustainable Social Protection System in Nigeria (SUSI) project, is collaborating with the National Bureau of Statistics (NBS) to enhance social protection statistics. Initially covering Abia, Benue, Oyo, and Sokoto states, the project is expanding to all 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory.

This initiative aims to improve data collection and analysis to better understand regional disparities and enhance social protection programs.