Labour Minister engages NLC over demands, strike threats
From Tongnaan Bawa, Jos
Minister of Labour and Employment, Simon Bako Lalong and the Minister of State Nkeiruka Onyeajeocha have met with members of the Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC towards finding solutions to pending issues raised by Labour and its threat of total strike.
At the meeting, the Minister of Labour Simon Lalong welcomed the team from the NLC led by its President Joe Ajaero and said the Government has noted the genuine concerns raised by the Labour which are receiving attention.
He said the aim of the meeting was to closely examine the demands and look at the issues that can be resolved immediately, those that will require time and others which need further discussions.
He said “we must also recognise the economic realities that confront us. As we address the concerns of the workforce, we must be mindful of striking a balance that promotes economic growth and secures sustainable progress for our nation. Today I call on 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”.
He expressed confidence that the meeting will produce resolutions that will propel the labour sector forward and generate harmonious collaboration between the Government and NLC which will facilitate environment where the workforce thrives.
NLC President Joe Ajaero said the labour has met with the government severally and put its demands on the table which have not been addressed.
He maintained that the workers have continued to experience hardships due to removal of subsidy but yet, there is no palliatives, wage award, review of minimum wage.
Ajaero also lamented that the NURTW Headquarters was breached by imposters who are trying to take over the leadership of the union illegally. He said the police have closed the Secretariat and also arrested its members who are still in detention. He demanded for their immediate release.
The meeting thereafter went into closed a door session.
