The Federal Government’s meeting with the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) on Monday did not reach a firm resolution to address the union’s demands, potentially leading to a strike.
Simon Lalong, Minister of Labour and Employment, convened the meeting but failed to address the concerns raised by the Congress as the basis for the proposed strike.
Following the meeting, Lalong remained hopeful that while the issues raised by Nigerian workers couldn’t be immediately resolved, many of their concerns would be addressed before the deadline.
“I fully acknowledge and appreciate the invaluable role the NLC plays in championing for the rights and welfare of our workers.
“Your dedication and tireless advocacy have been critical in shaping a fair and inclusive work environment and ensuring the wellbeing of our workforce.
“We acknowledge the valid grievances that have fueled the recent labour crisis, and we are committed to addressing them in a just and equitable manner.
“We must also recognize the economic realities that confront us. 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,” Lalong said.
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Meanwhile, during the meeting, the NLC President, Joe Ajaero expressed his displeasure about how the government handled the palliative scheme amidst the subsidy removal policy.
While the labour union did not desire a strike, recent labour sector developments, such as the NURTW crisis with police intervention, raised concerns. Lalong, in his opening remarks, acknowledged the nation’s challenges, including industrial actions impacting the economy.
“We had a meaningful discussion on issues relating to our demands. We equally discussed frankly on issues bordering on the coup plotted and executed by the Nigerian Police against the NURTW, which had led to the sideling of the democratically elected leadership of the union. Both parties agreed that to express concern about.
“This is one sore area that the Nigerian Trade Union is not ready to compromise is that coup must be condemned, whether it is in Niger, whether it’s in Congo, whether it’s in Mali or whether it’s in the trade Union movement in Nigeria,” he told newsmen.
When asked about the meeting’s agenda, Ajaero said, ” in the ultimatum we gave and in the NEC resolution, the issue of NURTW was clearly stated and it was at the time the issue has not degenerated the way it is now. That was why we had to bring it along with issues.
“On the other issues, you can see that there were no agreements on any, there is no CNG anywhere and refineries are not working neither gas,” he said.
Ajaero said an indefinite strike would commence if no progress was made before the end of the ultimatum the union issued to the government.
