The federal government has called for collaboration with trade union to ensure an improve welfare for Nigerian workers.
Minister of State for Labour and Employment Nkeiruka Noyejeocha who said this recently when she paid a visit to the President and leadership of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), said the move was part of strategy to mobilise critical stakeholders to align with government’s agenda in the Labour sector.
She remarked that without the cooperation of the labour union, who are the workers’ representatives, it would be difficult for the government to better the lot of Nigerian workers.
She also assured the Congress of government’s interest and readiness to work with labour unions to promote the wellbeing of workers, as well as boost national productivity.
Onyejeocha noted that the government needed the cooperation of labour to create the wealth with which to sustain Nigerian workers.
She therefore urged trade unions to regard strike as the last resort in seeking resolution of trade disputes, pushing for the fulfilment of agreement, or drawing the attention of government to the plight of workers and citizens.
According to the minister, “Government is interested in the welfare of Nigerian workers. We are interested in their health and the environment in which they work.”
Speaking, NLC President Comrade Joe Ajaero noted that the minister’s visit demonstrated care for Nigerian workers, as well as commitment to collaboration with workers’ representatives, and promised that the Congress would always work together with government in the interest of the workers.
He, however, urged the government to desist from violating Trade Union rights, and defaulting on agreements reached with Labour, as such actions brew trust gaps.
