FCT Minister Muhammed Bello emphasized the importance of dialogue in fostering a strong relationship between the government and labour organisations. Speaking in Abuja on Thursday during a courtesy visit by the Executive Council of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) FCT chapter, led by Chairman Stephen Knabayi, the minister welcomed the presentation of the new NLC executive members in the Federal Capital Territory.
“The power of dialogue is amazing; it can achieve a great deal,” Bello said. He noted that he would hand over reports to the incoming FCT Minister, detailing the positive relationships he had cultivated with various labour bodies, including the NLC, the Trade Union Congress (TUC) and the FCT’s own Joint Union Advisory Council (JUAC). While praising the partnership between the Federal Capital Territory Administration (FCTA) and the NLC, as well as its sub‑affiliated units such as the National Union of Teachers (NUT), Bello pledged continued cooperation to promote industrial harmony in the capital.
Bello congratulated Chairman Knabayi on his elevation as the new leader of the NLC in the FCT, attributing his rise to the credible roles he had played over the years as NUT chairman. He urged the new leadership to adopt fresh approaches and strategies in their communications and activities, given the higher stakes involved, and encouraged the association to view itself as a stakeholder in the FCT project. “As you ascend, you realise that much is achieved through mutual respect, dialogue and an understanding of the broader picture,” he added.
Knabayi explained that the new executive members were visiting to familiarize themselves with the FCT administration and to commend the minister for his efforts in improving workers’ welfare. “The NLC is available to work with you because we believe in dialogue and in recognising employers who have served us well. Meeting together to discuss issues always charts a better way forward,” he said.
The meeting was attended by FCT Permanent Secretary Olusade Adesola, Chief of Staff to the Minister Bashir Mai‑Bornu, FCDA Executive Secretary Engr. Shehu Ahmad, Directors of Human Resources Management and Treasury Bashir Muhammad, Dr. Zanna Hamza, and other senior FCTA officials, as well as executives of the FCT NLC Council.
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