Senate moves to end age discrimination in Nigerian job recruitment

On 19th July 2023, Senator Abba Moro, representing Benue South Senatorial District, brought a crucial motion to the floor of the Senate, seeking to address the concerning issue of age discrimination in job recruitment across Nigeria. Titled “The Irrational Age Requirement Precondition for Employment in Nigeria: Urgent Need for Senate Intervention,” the motion aimed to put an end to the disqualification of qualified applicants based on age, both in the public and private sectors.

Senator Moro’s motion highlighted the violation of citizens’ right to freedom from discrimination, as guaranteed by Chapter 4, Section 42 (2) of the Constitution of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, 1999 (as amended). The motion drew attention to the fact that discrimination in employment not only hinders economic growth and productivity but also creates socioeconomic inequalities that impede poverty reduction and undermine social cohesion.

The Senator expressed concern for the plight of Nigerian graduates who, despite pursuing higher qualifications like second or Masters Degrees, find themselves deemed unemployable solely based on their age. The motion also highlighted the irony that graduates can serve in the National Youth Service Corps Program at age 30 but are unable to secure gainful employment afterwards due to age restrictions.

To address this pressing issue, the Senate passed resolutions urging the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment to develop policies promoting equality of opportunity and treatment in employment at all levels. Additionally, the relevant agencies were urged to discourage employers from using age as a criterion for disqualification in job advertisements.

Senator Yahaya Abubakar Abdullahi also presented an additional prayer, calling for the Federal Civil Service Commission and the office of the Head of Service to revise their guidelines for appointments, promotions, and discipline to eliminate age-related restrictions.

Senate President, Senator Godswill Akpabio, expressed his appreciation for Senator Moro’s motion and shared his concerns about the rising unemployment levels exacerbated by age limits. He called on the relevant agencies to comply with the Senate’s resolutions to alleviate the pains and frustrations faced by unemployed Nigerian youths.

The motion by Senator Abba Moro represents a significant step towards ending age discrimination in employment and creating a more equitable job market in Nigeria.