In a dialogue held yesterday, the Federal Government assured the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC) of its unwavering commitment to fulfilling all agreements reached with them.
However, the government acknowledged the impracticality of implementing all agreements simultaneously in response to the 14-day ultimatum presented by both labour groups.
Addressing concerns regarding the looming strike threat following the ultimatum expiration, the NLC emphasized its reluctance towards strikes, stressing its purpose as a means to rectify societal injustices.
During a press briefing in Abuja, Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, reiterated the government’s dedication to upholding the contents of the Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) signed with the labour organizations. She urged them to exercise restraint as the government diligently tackles the nation’s challenges.
Onyejeocha underscored the government’s commitment to social dialogue and pledged the administration’s dedication to fulfilling its obligations to Nigerian workers and the vulnerable populations.
She assured, “We are committed to fully implementing the Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with Organised Labour. Our commitment is steadfast.”
Regarding the ongoing N35,000 wage implementation, she acknowledged complaints of non-compliance in certain sectors and affirmed the Ministry’s active resolution of these issues.
Furthermore, Onyejeocha highlighted government initiatives such as the Presidential Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) Initiative aimed at addressing subsidy removal challenges and transitioning to domestically produced, cost-effective gas for transport.
She outlined plans for CNG conversion kits distribution and development of conversion centers nationwide to facilitate the transition of vehicles from petrol to gas, ultimately reducing transportation costs.
Additionally, she disclosed procurement plans for thousands of CNG vehicles, including buses and tricycles, to be financed at concessional rates, aligning with the President’s commitment to providing affordable transport solutions.
The 14-day ultimatum was issued by the NLC and TUC, demanding the implementation of a 16-point agreement reached on October 2, 2023, with a strike threat looming if demands were not met.
