COVID -19 AND THE GLOBAL SOCIO-ECONOMIC RIGHTS: IMPACTS IN NIGERIA AND THE ROLES OF LAW

Abstract

The outbreak of Covid-19 has affected every sphere of human endeavours globally. Equally worrisome are the measures put in place to contain the spread of the pandemic. These measures have also negatively impacted the socio-economic rights of people in the world, and Nigeria is no exception. Against this backdrop, this study discusses   Covid-19 and the global socio-economic rights: impacts in Nigeria and the role of law. This paper relies on information from textbooks, journals, newspapers, statute, legal instrument and internet materials.. This study found that the outbreak of Covid-19 has led to the adoption of drastic measures like restriction of movement, closure of businesses and schools etc. which caused dwindling revenue, job losses and salaries cut globally and in Nigeria. Nevertheless, certain provisions of the law such as the Finance Act, National Health Insurance Scheme Act, Pension Reform Act, Employees Compensation Act can be explored to cushion the socio-economic impacts of Covid-19 in Nigeria. This will in turn enhance adequate standard of living, adequate mental and physical healthcare, social safety nets etc. This study suggested that the law and research oriented policies should be explored to cushion the impacts of Covid-19 on the socio-economic rights of people in Nigeria.