The Minister of Labour and Employment, Barr. Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, has engaged the leadership of the Academic Staff Union of Universities, ASUU, to work out modalities for early resolution of industrial disputes before it snowballs into major crisis.
Onyejeocha, who presided over the closed door meeting at the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment, urged the academic staff union to join forces with government for the collective good of the country.
She said the Renewed Hope Agenda of the current administration should serve as a clarion call for every sector of the country, including education, to move on the same pace.
She harped on the need to ensure smooth academic session in Nigeria in 2024 and beyond.
According to the Minister, “Being a product of the university system, I have a desire to shift the role of the Ministry of Labour and Employment beyond simply mediating disputes during strikes. We should be part of the process to ensure such actions are averted.”
Onyejeocha craved the indulgence of the leadership of the Union led by its President, Comrade Emmanuel Osodeke, to allow the ministry to know all the problems of the union.
She said such measures would foster mutual understanding in forestalling industrial disputes.
“Our doors are open for dialogue and complete transparency,” she told the ASUU delegation.
She noted that by prioritizing open communication and proactive problem-solving, both parties can work together to ensure a smooth academic session in 2024 and beyond, paving the way for a vibrant and flourishing educational landscape
“I crave your indulgence to allow the ministry to know all the issues you think we should know,” she said.
“I want us to be on the same page, from item one to the last, for the sake of the Renewed Hope Agenda.
“Labour Ministry is not supposed to be reactive but be proactive. We should be part of the process to make sure that every issue is addressed.
“I am a product of the university system. We should be on the same page because of the renewed hope agenda.”
