The meeting between the Federal Government and the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) to avert an imminent strike action ended on Monday without a concrete resolution to the union’s demands.
The Minister of Labour and Employment, Rt. Hon. Simon Lalong; and Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Hon. Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, met with the NLC President, Comrade Joe Ajaero, and other leaders in Abuja in an effort to stop organised labour from embarking on another industrial action.
The meeting is expected to continue at a later date.
The minister is also expected to hold a meeting with the leadership of the Trade Union Congress (TUC) later today.
The impasse followed Lalong’s invitation to the NLC for a meeting in light of the union’s planned nationwide strike owing to the removal of fuel subsidies and the hardship in the country.
The minister earlier invited the NLC and the TUC for talks to avert the two-day strike held between 5th and 6th September. But “only the TUC showed up for the meeting”, the ministry added.
During Monday’s meeting, Lalong promised to partner with organised labour to address the demands of the labour unions in a just and balanced way. He appealed to the labour leaders to be realistic and frank in the discussions.
He also expressed optimism that the meeting would lead to a resolution that is of national interest.
Ajaero responded that his team was in the meeting with mixed feelings, to find out whether “something will happen or not”, as many similar meetings had failed to yield a positive response.
He further said that the past strikes that the minister referred to were a result of the frustration Nigerian workers faced due to the effects of the hardship occasioned by the removal of fuel subsidies.
According to him, not one of the agreements with the Federal Government was addressed despite a series of meetings that were held.
Ajaero also condemned vehemently the invasion of the office of the National Union of Road Transport Workers with some of its leaders arrested and detained. According to him, that action alone is enough for the NLC to proceed with their planned strike.
Earlier at the Monday meeting, the Federal Government called on the NLC to fully embrace dialogue as a means of resolution to the issues bordering the removal of subsidy on the Premium Motor Spirit (popularly known as petrol or fuel).
The former Plateau State governor noted that he was willing to work alongside the unionists to find lasting solutions that will benefit all Nigerians.
He said: “In recent months, our country has witnessed teething challenges, marked by industrial actions and unrest that have adversely affected the economy. I appear before you today not just as a representative of the government, but as an advocate for constructive dialogue, aspiring to understand your concerns and working hand in hand to find lasting solutions that benefit all Nigerians.
“I fully acknowledge and appreciate the invaluable role the NLC plays in championing 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 well-being 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 recognise 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. 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.
“In the spirit of unity and with utmost commitment to the betterment of our nation, let us seize this opportunity to listen and understand one another. Together, let us explore innovative approaches, reimagining strategies that enhance working conditions and worker benefits while nurturing a robust economy.
“I am confident that this gathering will produce resolutions that propel our labour sector towards greater strength, and our beloved country towards a brighter future. We eagerly look forward to our discussions today, knowing that the harmonious collaboration between the government and the NLC will facilitate an environment where our workforce thrives, and our economy flourishes”.
