FGN appeals for two-week halt to NLC strike in bid to resolve disputes

FGN appeals for two-week halt to NLC strike in bid to resolve disputes

The Federal Government of Nigeria (FGN) has made an appeal for a two-week extension to finalize organized labour’s demands.

Mr. Simon Lalong, Minister of Labour and Employment, conveyed this message while addressing reporters at the conclusion of a closed-door meeting with the Trade Union Congress (TUC) in Abuja on Monday.

Lalong stated that the purpose of the meeting was to avert the proposed nationwide warning strike by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC).

The NLC had previously announced plans for a two-day nationwide warning strike from September 5th to September 6th, citing the hardships faced by the masses due to the removal of fuel subsidies.

It is worth noting that the NLC was conspicuously absent from the minister’s meeting.

The Federal Government had earlier appealed to the NLC to suspend the planned two-day nationwide strike.

Additionally, the TUC, in a statement, indicated that the need for a strike had not yet arisen but that they would engage in conversations with the government to address areas of concern.

READ ALSO: Nationwide strike commences on Tuesday as planned – NLC

According to Lalong, the government intends to address these issues within the two-week period and return for further discussions.

He stated, “Some of the issues we discussed require immediate attention, while others will take more time. This formed the basis of our discussion. We have agreed that there should be no strike during this two-week period as we deliberate and work towards achieving our objectives.”

Mr. Festus Osifo, President of the TUC, highlighted some of the urgent issues that need attention, including the implementation of palliatives and wage awards, tax exemptions and allowances for public sector workers, and the resolution of the N70 billion Small and Medium Enterprises and RTEAN crisis.

Osifo emphasized, “In the palliatives rolled out, there is no provision for federal workers. We also require a wage award. The government’s palliative measures are not comprehensive, and we believe that more can be done.”

Osifo further noted that TUC leadership would continue engaging with the federal government to ensure that their demands are addressed.

NAN