Unilever Nigeria, a longstanding manufacturing brand in the nation, has restated its dedication to Equity, Diversity, and Inclusion (ED&I). Mr. Ola Ehinmoro, the Human Resources Director for Unilever West Africa, recently emphasised the company’s unwavering commitment to employee welfare by implementing a variety of forward-thinking policies.
Ehinmoro highlighted that the policies, designed to optimize productivity and enhance work-life balance, are tailored to align with the varied needs and priorities of the company’s workforce, ensuring their aspirations are met.
“While the policies encompass all employees, particular emphasis is placed on the female gender to ensure that the workplace is as supportive and comfortable for them as possible. These policies encompass six core areas: Maternal and Paternal Leave, Menstrual Leave, Lactation & Crèche Facilities, Hybrid Working Model, Support for People with Special Abilities, and Engagement Initiatives,” he explained.
As per the updated policy, nursing mothers in the company are now offered onsite crèche facilities and lactation rooms, ensuring they can care for their babies and children while remaining engaged in their work. Recognising the challenges associated with childbirth, the transition to parenthood, and the significance of family, the company provides generous maternity and paternity leave beyond legal requirements. Expectant mothers are entitled to 16 weeks of maternity leave, while fathers receive 3 weeks of paternity leave.
Additionally, as part of its efforts to promote emotional, physical, and psychological well-being among female employees during their menstrual period, the company offers a one-day menstrual leave to allow them to rest and rejuvenate. This flexibility is extended to all employees through a hybrid working structure, which includes three days on-site and two days of remote work (WFH – Work From Home). Moreover, the company provides allowances to support remote work and ensures that its offices are equipped with state-of-the-art digital tools to facilitate seamless collaboration and maximize productivity.
Expanding on his remarks, Ehinmoro stressed Unilever Nigeria’s commitment to cultivating a diverse and inclusive workplace, acknowledging that the company’s strength stems from the diverse backgrounds and skills of its employees. He made clear Unilever’s dedication to being an equal opportunities employer, with a firm stance against discrimination based on gender, race, color, or background.
Furthermore, he called attention to Unilever’s ongoing efforts to create an office environment that is disability-friendly and proactive to providing meaningful employment opportunities for people with disabilities. Ehinmoro reiterated Unilever’s ambition to ensure that 5% of its workforce comprises individuals with disabilities, demonstrating the company’s steadfast commitment to diversity, inclusion and equality in the workplace.
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