In the face of the Coronavirus (COVID-19) pandemic, which is reported to have recorded over one million cases and over sixty thousand deaths around the world, several countries have been forced to take drastic decisions in a desperate bid to curtail further spread of the virus. The ravaging effect of the COVID-19 has had far reaching implications on the global economy, with several businesses temporarily shut down, movements restricted, and various economic activities placed on hold pending the containment of the virus. The world of work is not exempted. In the workplace, most employers have responded by adopting innovative and flexible approaches to work including remote working, virtual meetings, etc. However, these alterations in work dynamics are not without their limitations. Beyond the setbacks occasioned by lack of adequate infrastructure (work tools, access to constant electricity and internet), several sectors require physical presence of employers and employees to enable the smooth running of their operations and businesses. Following the cessation of numerous economic activities in several States in Nigeria, many employers are gradually depleting their financial resources in an attempt to sustain the salaries and entitlements of their workforce. With no access to the workplace, and given their present inability to work or generate income, some employers are already taking definitive steps and putting measures in place to manage employment disruptions caused by the COVID-19 related lockdown. Without a doubt, many employers are at a loss on how to sustain their financial obligations or legally manage the situation without necessary laying off their employees, some of whom are presently unable to provide any service to their employers as a result of the lockdown. Read More
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