The Federal Government is still in dialogue with the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) to address their demands, and stop organised labour from embarking on their intended strike.
Minister of Labour and Employment, Simon Lalong, disclosed this at the end of a meeting with the leadership of NLC, which he convened to address the ongoing Labour crisis in the country comprising their intended strike and other issues.
He said that discussions on many of the items which NLC had tabled previously before the Federal Government had not reached the final stages.
The President of Nigeria Labour Congress, Joe Ajaero, stated that the parties agreed to continue their discussions till they arrived at a meaningful agreement within the remaining days of the ultimatum issued for the commencement of the strike.
Ajaero said that the parties also agreed to work towards the resolution of the issue of the invasion of the office of the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW), and the arrest of its duly elected principal officers by government agents.
Earlier, at the commencement of the meeting, the Minister had expressed Federal Government’s commitment to addressing the concerns of workers as raised by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), and which were fuelling the agitation by the Trade union.
According to the Minister, “We acknowledge the valid grievances that have fuelled the recent Labour crisis, and we are committed to addressing them in a just and equitable manner.”
He, however, implored the NLC to also consider the economic reality of the nation, as the Labour Congress take actions in ensuring the wellbeing of workers.
According to him, “As we address the concerns of our workforce, we must be mindful of striking a balance that promotes economic growth and secures sustainable progress for our nation.”
He called on organised labour to work with government to explore strategies that would enhance working conditions and benefits of workers while also nurturing a robust economy.
“Today, I call upon each one of you to join hands in an open-minded and constructive dialogue, enabling us to bridge any gaps that may exist between the interests of workers and the ultimate goal of driving economic advancement.”
The President, Nigeria Labour Congress, Joe Ajaero, noted that the option of strike was borne out of frustration on account of the debilitating hardship in the country emanating from the removal of fuel subsidy.
Olajide Oshundun
Director, Press and Public Relations Unit
