The [Labour Writers Association of Nigeria (LAWAN)](https://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Labour_Writers_Association_of_Nigeria) is set to hold its 2026 conference on 30 October in Lagos, bringing together union leaders, government officials and scholars to examine workers' welfare, labour rights and economic justice as the country moves through a political transition.
**Key details of the gathering**
- Date: 30 October 2026
- Venue: Lagos, Nigeria
- Commencement time: 10:00 a.m.
- Theme: “Workers at the Centre of Nigeria’s Political Transition: Defending Rights, Advancing Welfare and Building Economic Justice.”
- Expected attendance: hundreds of representatives from unions, ministries and academic institutions.
**What is the theme of the conference?**
The chosen theme underscores LAWAN’s intention to place employee rights and well‑being at the heart of discussions about Nigeria’s evolving political landscape. Organisers aim to use the platform to propose policies that improve welfare standards and promote a fairer economic order.
**Who are the prominent speakers?**
Among the union heads slated to appear are the President of the [Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC)](https://www.nlcng.org), Joe Ajaero, and the President of the [Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC)](https://tucng.org), Festus Osifo. The conference will also feature the Managing Director of the [Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF)](https://www.nsitf.gov.ng), Oluwaseun Faleye, and the Director‑General of the [National Pension Commission (PenCom)](https://www.pencol.gov.ng), Omolola Oloworaran, as keynote speakers.
Additional speakers include Professor Tunde Akanni, a journalism professor at Lagos State University (LASU); Dr Ganiu Okunnu, senior lecturer in LASU’s Department of Public Relations and Advertising; and Ismail Bello, Deputy General Secretary of the NLC.
**Why is the event considered significant?**
The Minister of Labour and Employment, Dr Mohammed Dingyadi, and Lagos State Deputy Governor, Dr Obafemi Hamzat, are expected to attend as special guests of honour, signalling high‑level government endorsement. LAWAN Chairman Toba Agboola explained that the theme reflects the association’s commitment to foreground workers’ rights as the nation navigates its political transition, stressing the need for economic justice and improved well‑being.
**What outcomes are anticipated?**
Organisers anticipate that the conference will foster dialogue among the labour movement, policymakers and academia, leading to concrete recommendations for legislation, social protection schemes and welfare programmes that safeguard workers’ interests and contribute to a more equitable economy.
The event promises to be a pivotal forum for shaping Nigeria’s labour agenda during a critical period of political change.