A bill aimed at documenting and safeguarding domestic workers and their employers in Nigeria has passed a second reading in the Senate.
The proposed legislation Sponsored by Senator Hussaini Babangida from Jigawa North West, seeks to reduce the risk of domestic workers colluding with criminal elements against their employers by maintaining comprehensive biometric data and relevant background information nationwide.
The proposed law also aims to monitor the movement of domestic workers within the country and across borders to ensure security.
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In his lead debate, Senator Babangida emphasized the prevalence of unregistered, undocumented, and vulnerable Nigerians working without protection, often subjected to various forms of abuse ranging from slave labour to physical and sexual exploitation.
Highlighting the lack of support for many domestic workers under current labour laws, the lawmaker emphasized the collaborative effort with the Federal Ministry of Labour
He noted that the legislation not only safeguards domestic workers but also protects their employers.
According to Senator Babangida, It is imperative to address the alarming reality that many Nigerians employed in domestic roles are essentially treated as slaves without adequate legal protections.
The Lawmakers took turns in support of the bill Which was thereafter referred to the Senate Committee on Labor and Productivity for further review, with a report expected within four weeks.
(Editor: Ena Agbanoma)
