Evaluation of the Status and rights of Domestic Workers under Nigerian Labour Law

This article evaluated the status and rights of domestic workers under Nigerian labour law. 
The work demonstrates that the institution of domestic servants dates back as far as human 
history. Domestic workers in Nigeria have historically been and continue to be primarily 
women and children. Domestic workers are typically subjected to a variety of unpleasant 
conditions, including long hours under precarious conditions, exploitation, physical, mental, 
and sexual abuse. However, this study stresses that while fundamental legislation prohibiting 
child labour exists in Nigeria, its legal enforcement remains a significant challenge. This study 
used descriptive and qualitative research methodology, including an analytical examination 
and critique of the laws and materials relevant to this study. It also analyzed several legal 
frameworks governing domestic workers, particularly child labour. The work compared the 
legal frameworks of South Africa, Ghana, and Russia. Governments and policymakers should 
as a matter of necessity prioritize the formalization of the domestic workers' sector, ensuring 
that domestic workers have the same rights, status, and protections as workers in other sectors 
under Nigerian law. Following the current increase in demand and the development of various 
methods of acquisition, underscoring their roles and contributions to national economy, the 
study recommends that the government enact legislative and policy actions to protect domestic 
workers, as well as impose appropriate sanctions on defaulters in the engagement of domestic 
workers in Nigeria.