The Speaker of the House of Representatives, Rep. Tajudeen Abbas, has called on the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) to reconsider their decision to embark on a planned strike action.
In his opening remarks at the resumption of plenary on Tuesday, Speaker Abbas assured that the House would actively engage and support the Executive in addressing the current economic hardship in the country.
Highlighting the potential negative consequences of a strike, Abbas emphasized that such action would only exacerbate the situation for all Nigerians. He urged the union to take into account the ongoing efforts being made to improve the economy.
With the removal of fuel subsidy and the resulting economic challenges, the union has been demanding a sustainable minimum wage and palliatives for citizens. Following the expiration of the 21-day ultimatum at midnight today, the union has threatened to commence an indefinite strike.
Speaker Abbas expressed solidarity with the struggles faced by Nigerians during these difficult times and stated, “As promised earlier, this House remains committed to securing a decent wage for all Nigerian workers.”
He further emphasized that the House had pledged to mediate between organized labour and the government to swiftly determine a realistic new national minimum wage. Additionally, efforts would be made to provide other measures to help citizens cope with the economic impact of fuel subsidy removal, the devaluation of the naira, high food prices, and the overall increased cost of living in the country.
Abbas firmly believed that embarking on a nationwide strike at this point in time would only worsen the already dire situation. He therefore appealed to the leadership of the Labour Unions to suspend any planned strike action and engage with the executive.
The speaker urged lawmakers to seize the opportunity presented by their offices to reverse the country’s challenges and create a brighter future for the nation.
In an encouraging development, President Bola Tinubu has achieved notable diplomatic and economic breakthroughs with the United Arab Emirates. This has resulted in the resumption of visa issuance to Nigerians by the UAE and the return of Emirates Airlines to Nigerian skies.
Tinubu has also secured significant economic agreements in India following a productive outing at the recently concluded 78th General Assembly of the United Nations.
Looking ahead, the Executive arm of government is expected to present the 2023 Supplementary Appropriation Bill and the 2024 Appropriation Bill to the House. Despite the anticipated short timeframe, Abbas stressed the need for immediate action to ensure the speedy consideration of these bills in line with the aspirations of the people.
Recognizing the urgency of the nation’s challenges, Abbas urged lawmakers to put in extra work hours to ensure the budget’s timely passage and implementation from the first day of 2024.
The Speaker directed all ad hoc Committees to conclude their assignments and submit their reports before October 3rd, as these committees will cease to exist after the ultimatum. Any tasks remaining unfinished by these committees will be transferred to the relevant Standing Committees.
In addition, Abbas announced the establishment of three new committees: State and Local Government, Traditional Institutions, and Petroleum Resources. This brings the total number of House Committees to 137. Furthermore, 13 more Parliamentary Friendship Groups have been created to facilitate capacity development and peer learning.
NAN
