Workers frustration over subsidy removal necessitated warning strike – NLC President

President of the Nigeria Labour Congress, Joe Ajaero has said the two-day warning strike earlier embarked on by the union was necessitated by frustration on the part of the working class.

Ajaero stated this on Monday, at the commencement of a meeting called at the instance of the Minister of Labour and Employment, Simon Lalong.

Expressing his displeasure on the way the government was handling the palliative scheme amid the subsidy removal policy, Ajaero said none of the demands raised by workers, which the government pledged to meet have been fulfilled, despite the two-day warning strike.

The apex Labour union said not that workers were keen on embarking on strikes but recent developments in the labour sector, particularly the crisis in the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) where the police have taken over the secretariat leaves much to be desired.

Before the meeting broke into a closed-door session, Lalong said the country was witnessing teething challenges, marked by industrial actions and unrest that have adversely affected the economy.

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He said he was optimistic that a constructive dialogue which has just begun will lead to the resolution of the issues on the ground.

“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 wellbeing 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 recognize 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,” Lalong noted.