The Nigerian government and labour unions have agreed to meet on June 19 to discuss the implementation framework of agreements reached on subsidy removal. The meeting, which was led by Femi Gbajabiamila, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, took place at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.
One of the key points reached in the seven-point resolution was the establishment of a joint committee consisting of the Federal Government, the Trade Union Congress (TUC), and the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC). This committee will review proposals for wage increases or awards, and create a framework and timeline for implementation.
Another resolution was to review and propose the inclusion of low-income earners in the World Bank Financed Cash transfer scheme. The CNG conversion programme, an initiative to encourage the use of compressed natural gas as a cleaner fuel for vehicles, was also revived, with detailed implementation and timing to be worked out.
Mr Gbajabiamila also revealed that issues hindering effective delivery in the education sector will be reviewed, and solutions for implementation proposed. The rehabilitation of Nigeria’s national refineries, as well as the maintenance of roads and expansion of rail networks across the country, will also be considered in the framework.
The NLC agreed to suspend their notice of strike, and ongoing engagements will continue to ensure the resolutions reached are implemented. The government had earlier obtained a court order restraining the labour unions from embarking on a nationwide industrial action on Wednesday.
The upcoming meeting on June 19 will determine how the implementation framework will be executed, and it is hoped that all parties will reach a mutually beneficial agreement that benefits all Nigerians.
