Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Nkeiruka Onyejeocha has reacted to the strike threats by organised Labour, saying the implementation of the sixteen-point agreement to alleviate the plight of workers over subsidy removal was still on course.
Recall that the organised Labour comprising the Nigeria Labour Congress and Trade Union Congress had issued a 14-day ultimatum to the government to meet demands reached following the removal of subsidy by the government.
But reacting to the threats, Onyejeocha said the government is fully committed to honouring its obligations to workers and the less privileged in Nigeria.
She said the government will ensure the complete implementation of the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) entered into with Organized Labour, stressing that their word is a bond.
“I can confidently say that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s administration stands firmly with the people, and the President is tirelessly working to ensure that everything is done to address the needs and concerns of the nation”.
Speaking at a press conference on Friday, in Abuja, Onyejeocha acknowledged concerns regarding the difficulties currently experienced by Nigerian workers.
“This government acknowledges the challenges faced by Nigerians and has demonstrated sincerity in its ongoing negotiations with the trade unions.
“You will also agree with me that negotiations are often a gradual process, with resolutions unfolding in stages, however, the Government is assuring Nigerians of its continued commitment to addressing labour concerns and fulfilling all agreements as we move forward together.
“The government would also like to assure the organised labour of its commitment to maintaining open and constructive communication with them to foster positive labour relations and guarantee a supportive working environment for all workers,” she told reporters.
According to her, the N35,000 wage award agreed upon between the government and organized labour is currently being implemented.
She said complaints regarding non-implementation in some public sector organizations as well as the private sector have been received, which the Ministry is actively addressing to ensure compliance across all sectors.
She said, “Two days ago, I mediated between the National Union of Civil Engineering Construction, Furniture and Wood Workers (NUCEFWW), Civil Engineering Senior Staff Association (CCESSA), the Federation of Construction Industries (FOCI) (Employers). Consequently, the parties have signed an agreement to resolve the issue.
