The Organised Private Sector of Nigeria (OPSN) has called on the Federal Government and labour unions to prioritize the well-being of over 200 million Nigerians and prevent the strike scheduled for October. The OPSN emphasizes the need for both parties to work together in the best interest of the nation’s economy, which could be severely impacted by the strike.
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) recently announced their intention to initiate a strike action starting from October 3. This declaration follows the expiration of a 21-day ultimatum given by the unions to the government to provide measures to alleviate the impact of fuel subsidy removal on the Nigerian populace.
Mr. Segun Ajayi-Kadir, the Director-General of the Manufacturers Association of Nigeria (MAN), conveyed the response of the OPSN to the declaration made by the labour unions.
Ajayi-Kadir reiterates the OPSN’s earlier plea to avert the imminent disruption of socio-economic activities, while emphasizing that the current economic indicators in the country do not support a strike. He expresses the deep concern, bordering on anxiety, felt by the OPSN regarding the ongoing negotiations between the government and labour.
The OPSN believes that inadequate consideration is being given to the dire economic situation and the devastating consequences a nationwide strike would have on the country at this critical time.
Ajayi-Kadir states, “Government and labour need to understand that our economy is being de-marketed, and the livelihood of the average Nigerian is being diminished by this incessant bickering. One is beginning to wonder if the well-being of more than 200 million Nigerians is being factored into their negotiations.”
Consequently, the MAN director-general urges the government to reopen negotiations with the labour unions and find a mutually beneficial solution to avert the potential disruption of business activities and the nationwide strike.
Ajayi-Kadir appeals for careful consideration of the grim state of the economy and the unintended consequences of social unrest that may arise from the strike. He advises manufacturers to exercise caution in their business operations and assures them that the association is actively involved in last-minute efforts to prevent the strike.
“Steps must be taken to safeguard company assets, while contingency plans should be put in place to ensure business continuity,” Ajayi-Kadir recommends.
Furthermore, the director-general emphasizes the need for the government to demonstrate good faith by honoring its promises during negotiations with labour, while cautioning against making commitments that cannot or will not be fulfilled.
Ajayi-Kadir also urges the labour unions to realistically assess their demands in view of the current economic realities and explore ways to meet these demands, while suggesting that the unions expand their scope of demands to include recommendations on how the government can fulfill their requirements. These recommendations should be accompanied by implementation strategies and realistic timelines.
The OPSN remains committed to finding a resolution to the impending strike and upholds the importance of collaboration between the government and labour unions for the betterment of the nation’s economy and the welfare of its citizens.
