On Sunday, Senate President Godswill Akpabio and House of Representatives Speaker Tajudeen Abbas met with leaders of the Nigeria Labour Congress and the Trade Union Congress in a final attempt to prevent the planned nationwide strike set for Monday.
The session, held at the National Assembly, included key figures such as the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, and Finance Minister Wale Edun.
Akpabio, through a statement by his Special Assistant on Media and Communication, Anietie Ekong, emphasized the urgency of the meeting, noting that the National Assembly leadership had postponed an important engagement to facilitate the dialogue.
Akpabio highlighted President Tinubu’s commitment to resolving the issues through a dedicated committee led by senior officials like Akume and the Head of Service.
According to Senator Akpabio, “I do know that Mr President had set up a very serious committee to negotiate with Labour. The Secretary to the Government of the Federation and the Head of Service who are here with us have been deeply involved in the negotiations.
“So the leadership of both Chambers decided to invite everybody here so we can listen to all parties. We are not taking over the work of the executive. We are not taking over the work of the NLC and TUC. But we just said we should hear from you.
“It is very difficult to negotiate for peace in an atmosphere of crisis. If you are on strike it means you are no longer negotiating. And the Nigerian people are desirous in having a closure to the issue of the minimum wage.
“And the government too is very eager to meet the yearnings of the people to a reasonable extent based on the current economic realities. Hence there was need for us to call all parties to the table and to hear from you.
“As the People’s Parliament we are also on the side of the people. Above all we are also workers. So what affects you affects us and what affects us also affects you. I welcome you that you honored this invitation of the 10th National Assembly at very short notice,” he said.
Speaker Abbas echoed Akpabio’s sentiments, underscoring the National Assembly’s role as a representative of the people. “We stand with both the government and the labour unions. Our objective is to ensure that the common man is heard and that a living wage is implemented to combat corruption over time,” Abbas said. He also noted that while systemic issues cannot be fixed overnight, a gradual plan must be established to ensure Nigerian workers earn a sufficient income to meet their basic needs.
Nigerian Labour Congress President Comrade Joe Ajaero expressed gratitude to the National Assembly for their intervention, emphasizing that their negotiations aim to benefit all Nigerians.
“Our goal is to secure a living wage for all Nigerians, not just the labour union members. We are committed to finding a sustainable solution,” Ajaero stated.
Do you have any information or event for ABUJAPRESS to publish or cover? Kindly Call us on +2349075556668 or send us message on Whatsapp number +2349075556668 or send us an email [email protected]
No comments