The International Labour Organization (ILO) has adopted new global standards aimed at improving conditions for platform and gig economy workers, a development described as a major breakthrough for app-based transporters and other digital workers worldwide.
Speaking on the development, Comrade Jaiyesimi Azeez, popularly known as Makavelli, who is the Lagos State Chairman of the Amalgamated Union of App-Based Transporters of Nigeria (AUATON), said the convention marks a turning point for workers in the platform economy.
He explained that the platform economy, which includes ride-hailing, courier services, logistics and e-learning, represents the future of work, but has long been marked by poor regulation and worker vulnerability.
According to him, the new ILO standards will guarantee key rights such as defined wages, social security, insurance and pensions for platform workers, alongside stronger protection against unfair treatment and workplace risks.
Makavelli also raised concerns about operational safety, noting that many app-based workers face insecurity on the roads and lack adequate protection systems such as functional panic buttons and reliable trip verification tools.
He further criticized unfair rating systems and algorithm-based decisions that, according to him, often lead to unjust deactivation of drivers without proper human review or the chance to defend themselves.
The union leader also called for stronger enforcement of safety measures, including proper rider verification, on-trip insurance coverage and improved emergency response systems to protect both drivers and passengers.
He urged the Nigerian government to fully align with the new ILO convention by enforcing regulations in collaboration with stakeholders, noting that proper implementation would improve worker welfare and strengthen the economy.
Makavelli emphasized that platform workers must be treated with dignity, adding that improved conditions would reduce tension in the sector and promote stability in the growing digital workforce.
