The National Economic Council (NEC) has issued an appeal to the leadership of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) to reconsider their planned industrial action and instead continue engaging in dialogue with their respective State governments. The council emphasized the potential negative impact of the proposed strike on the economy and the nation as a whole.
Speaking on behalf of the council, Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State urged the NLC leadership to carefully consider the consequences of their actions. He highlighted the need for patience and encouraged the NLC to continue working with state governments and the federal government through peaceful discussions.
In his statement, Governor Mutfwang also disclosed that President Bola Ahmed Tinubu would address the demands of the Nigerian Labour Congress in his Independence Day speech on October 1st. He emphasized the critical period the nation is currently facing and the importance of all major stakeholders supporting the government in its ongoing economic reforms.
“That is why we are appealing for patience and time to be able to address the concerns of labor. We believe Mr. President will address the concerns of the NLC in his speech on October 1st,” Governor Mutfwang said. He further emphasized that, as a federation, discussions should continue at the state level due to the unique circumstances and issues specific to each state.
The governor expressed genuine concerns over the ability of the country’s leadership to meet the demands of the Nigeria Labour Congress and address the needs of the general populace. He underscored the NEC’s sincere concerns about the situation in the country and appealed for calm and patience, believing that the leadership across the nation is committed to addressing the concerns of labor and moving the country forward.
It is worth recalling that the NLC and the Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC), on September 26th, declared an indefinite strike starting from October 3rd in a bid to compel the federal government to find a solution to the widespread hardship experienced by Nigerians due to the removal of fuel subsidy.
