As Nigeria faces economic challenges that have a direct impact on its workforce, two labour leaders are urging the incoming Minister of Labour to empathize with Nigerian workers. In anticipation of President Bola Tinubu’s swearing-in of new ministers on Monday, the leaders expressed the importance of addressing the needs of the labor force.
Funmi Sessi, Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) Lagos Chapter, expressed optimism in Simon Lalong, the newly appointed Minister of Labour and Employment, due to his prior experience as the Governor of Plateau State. Sessi emphasized the need for Lalong to bring his wealth of experience to address labor-related issues.
Speaking on behalf of the NLC, Sessi expressed hope that Lalong would extend his good working relationship with labor unions in his former state to labor centers across the nation. Sessi stressed that it was necessary for Nigerian workers, both in the public and private sectors, to share in the wealth they help create.
“The future is bright with labor and Lalong as the minister, all things being equal, if he will not change, and with the good industrial relationship that he maintained with the labor unions in his state,” Sessi said. She also highlighted the need for a minister who is compassionate, experienced, and humane, someone who will prioritize employment creation and productivity.
Aladetan Abiodun, the Secretary of the Trade Union Congress of Nigeria Lagos State Council, also emphasized the challenges the new Minister of Labour will face. Abiodun highlighted the tense industrial climate resulting from the removal of fuel subsidy and its negative impact on fixed income earners. He stressed the importance of the new minister hitting the ground running to avoid a full-scale industrial crisis.
In addition, Abiodun called for the quick settlement of the new minimum wage issue and for the Ministry of Labour to fulfill its statutory responsibilities, particularly regarding labor inspections. He emphasized the importance of holding employers accountable for breaching employment agreements and ensuring that foreign companies respect Nigerian labor laws.
By prioritizing the concerns of Nigerian workers and effectively managing labor-related challenges, the new Minister of Labour can contribute to a strengthened economy and improved industrial relations.
NAN
