Labour

Oyo Pensioners Elect New Executives

By Web News 782

By Olaolu Fawole

Delegates of the Nigeria Union of Pensioners from the thirty-three local government areas of Oyo State have elected new executives of the union.

The new executives would steer the affairs of the union for four years.

Comrade James Osuntade, who was elected unopposed was sworn in as the new chairman of the union during the State delegates conference held in Ibadan.

Comrade Joseph Oladipo with one hundred and sixty-three votes defeated Comrade Francis Ogunlowo who had eleven votes to emerge as the new vice chairman of the union.

Eighteen elective positions were contested unopposed.

In an interview, the electoral officer of the election, Comrade Bunmi Ogunkolade, who is also the spokesperson, Nigeria Union of Pensioners, lauded the delegates for a free, fair and credible election.

The newly elected Chairman, Comrade James Osuntade in his acceptance speech, solicited more cooperation from members in the quest to record enviable achievements.

Also, Secretary, Oyo NUP, Comrade Olusegun Abatan, attributed the achievements of the outgone executives to unity among them.

In their goodwill messages, the immediate past Chairman, Oyo NUP, Chief Isiaka Abolade and Chairman, Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, Oyo State Council, Comrade Kayode Martins appealed to the new executives to always work in unison.

While declaring the conference open, Governor Seyi Makinde of Oyo State, represented by his Special Adviser on labour matters, Comrade Bayo Titilola-Sodo reiterated his commitment to the welfare of the senior citizens.

Members of the new executives are Mr Joseph Oladipo as Vice Chairman, Mr Olusegun Olubiyi as Treasurer, Comrade Joel Ayodabo as Trustee 1, Mr Olusegun Oloyede as Trustee 2, while Mrs Aderonke Maboreje is the new Auditor.

The newly elected Ex-Officio members are Dr Ajani Salami, Prince Wasiu Adegbite, Chief Akintunde Akinpelu, Mr Solomon Akande, Mr Taiwo Ayanlowo, Mrs Toyin Agboke, Mr Sunday Falade, Chief Olusegun Adeleye, Mrs Veronica Adewoyin, Chief Onifade Aderogba, Mr Olusegun Adeleke, Alhaji Aliu Sanuola and Mr Adesupo Ogunsile.

Labour

Ensure Training, Re-Training of Civil Servants, OSHA Tells HoS

By Web News 296

By Mojisola Oladele

As the Budget Defense exercise continues, The Osun State House of Assembly wants the Office of Head of Service to engage in regular training and re-training of civil servants across the state.

The Chairman House of Assembly Committee on Finance and Appropriation, Mr Saheed Fatunmise made the call during the budget defense exercise of Government Ministries, Departments and Agencies, MDAs held at the House of Assembly complex in Osogbo.

Mr Fatunmise explained that training and retraining of civil servants became imperative for better service delivery in line with international best practices.

He called on the Head of Service to work on synergy between the ministry and relevant Committees of the Osun State House of Assembly.

According to Mr. Saheed Fatunmise “We really commended Head of Service for taking good Care of civil servants in the state“.

“We want you to work more on training and retraining of the civil servants across the state” he added.

Mr Fatunmise who tasked MDAs to remain steadfast on the financial decisions of the state emphasized the need for them to approach the budget execution process with equity, prudence and fairness.

Also in separate contributions, other lawmakers commended the Permanent Secretary, Bureau of Public Service Pensions for prompt payment of salaries and wages.

They advised the MDAs to improve on revenue generation to increase the Internally Generated Revenue, IGR.

The MDAs that appeared before the lawmakers for the Budget Defense exercise include; the Ministry of Regional Integration and Special Duties, the Office of Head of Service, the Bureau of Public Service Pensions, the Bureau of Human Resources and Capacity Building and the Ministry of Federal Affairs.

Others are the Bureau of General Services, the Ministry of Culture and Tourism, the Bureau of Cabinet and Special Service and the Ministry of Political Affairs and Inter-Governmental Relations.

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Labour

NULGE Reiterates Push for Local Government Autonomy

By Web News 407

By Olubunmi Agboola

The southwest zonal executives of the Nigeria Union Of Local Government Employees, NULGE, have reiterated their determination to continue to advocate the implementation of full autonomy for local government administrations.

The labour leaders made this known at a press conference held at the union’s zonal secretariat in Ibadan.

The Vice President General, NULGE, Southwest, Mr. Abimbola Babalola said the benefits of local government autonomy include, national development, massive empowerment of people, power decentralization, financial independence and economic development at the grassroots.

Mr. Babalola also solicited for support from traditional rulers, religious leaders and the media in advocating local government autonomy, which would foster development at the grassroots.

He said with the vision of President Bola Tinubu in restoring local government as a critical tier of government in the country, the union would remain resolute to support the cause.

NULGE in 774 Local Governments across the Federation, including those in Oyo State, had recently staged a peaceful rally to throw weight behind PBAT on implementation of LG Autonomy and to draw the attention of relevant stakeholders to the demand.

Also the federal government through the Attorney General of the Federation, Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, had dragged the 36 Governors to court over local government autonomy.

Labour

Minimum Wage: OMC Calls for Dialogue  

By Web News 483

By Olusegun Folarin 

The Ogun Muslim Council, OMC, has renewed the call for the review of International Labour Law to mandate employers and employees to engage in “round table” discussions as a sustainable option for resolving industrial disputes.

The OMC Secretary General, Alhaji Kamaldeen Akintunde made the call in a statement in Abeokuta while reacting to the recent industrial action of the organized labour over the National minimum wage.

While encouraging the organized labour to heed the voice of reason and wisdom by embracing the intervention of well-meaning Nigerians and stakeholders across various sectors, the religious body also urged the Federal Government to be open to negotiations and not remain obstinate regarding labour’s demands.

Recounting the effects of the strike action on the social economic activities in the country especially on the airlift of pilgrims to Makkah and Madinah in the Kingdom of Saudi Arabia, OMC called for maturity and understanding from the Labour movement during this critical time. 

The OMC, while lamenting the current economic hardship and inflation that have caused significant suffering among Nigerians, advised families and individuals to adjust their economic plans to align with the present realities.

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Labour

Present new minimum wage template by Wednesday – Tinubu Directs Finance Minister

By Web News 642

President Bola Tinubu has directed the Minister of Finance and Co-ordinating Minister of the Economy, Mr Wale Edun, to calculate the cost implications of the proposed new national minimum wage.

The President gave the directive in Abuja when he met with members of the Federal Government’s Negotiation Team, which briefed him on the outcome of its engagement with the Organised Labour.

After the meeting, the Minister of Information and National Orientation, Alhaji Mohammed Idris, said the Minister of Finance had been given Wednesday (today), to provide the figures that would guide government on the issue at stake.

“It’s been quite challenging, but we thank God that we’re at this point. We thank Labour that true to their words last night, they have suspended their strike early this morning.

“Government on its side, you can see that the President has just summoned a meeting of all those who negotiated on behalf of the federal government, led by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation.

“The Minister of Finance was there, the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, myself, the Minister of Labour, the Group Managing Director of the NNPC.

“We were all there to look at those issues and then the President has directed the Minister of Finance to do the numbers and get back to him between today and tomorrow so that we can have some figures ready for negotiation with Labour”, he said.

The Minister of Information emphasised that the President was committed to an acceptable and sustainable new minimum wage realistic for Nigerians, involving not just the Federal Government, but also states and the organised private sector.

He noted that the government was not opposed to wage increment, but that it wants to ensure that any agreement reached is sustainable and realistic, given the economic realities on the ground.

“Let me say that Mr President is determined to go with what the committee has said, he’s also looking at the welfare of Nigerians. Like I said earlier, government is not an opponent of Labour discussions, it’s not an opponent of wage increase, but what is there is that government is desirous of ensuring that there is balance between what its pronouncement is and what realities are on ground, therefore we’ll work assiduously to ensure that whatever we do, whatever promises government makes will be kept. That’s the idea of this meeting.

“The President has given a marching order that all those who have negotiated on behalf of government and those who are representatives of other sectors, the organized private sector and the sub-nationals, come together so that we can have a new wage award that is acceptable, sustainable and also realistic for Nigeria.

“A wage award is not just that of the federal government. Like I mentioned, the sub-nationals are involved, the organized private sector is involved, the Labour is involved. It was Labour that staged a walkout during those proceedings, now that we’ve come back to the negotiating table, all of us will work together again, assiduously, within the next one week to ensure that we have a new wage for Nigeria that is acceptable, sustainable and also realistic for all Nigerians”, Idris said.

He explained that the meeting, attended by the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, Senator George Akume, the Minister of Budget and Economic Planning, Senator Atiku Bagudu, the Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, and the Group Managing Director of the NNPC, Alhaji Mele Kyari, was aimed at finding a balance between the government’s pronouncements and the economic realities on the ground.

FRCN Abuja

Labour

Cut Cost of Governance – Ex NLC President Tells Govt

By Web News 287

By Mojisola Oladele

The Nationwide Industrial Action embarked upon by the Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC ,Trade Union Congress, TUC  and other affiliated Unions was strictly observed in Osogbo the Osun State Capital.

The Labour Unions under the umbrella of the Nigeria Labour Congress and the Trade Union Congress are demanding the present #30,000 minimum wage be raised to 494,000 naira,in line with the current economic realities of the Nation.

Our Correspondent reports that the state secretariat, House of Assembly, Financial Institutions, public schools and other government offices across the state were locked.

In an interview with newsmen in Osogbo, the former President of the Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, From 1978 to 1984, Mr. Hassan Sunmonu emphasized the need for government to reduce the cost of governance by 50 percent to improve the nation’s economy and  make life bearable for the masses.

Mr. Sunmonu said government was not sincere with the plight of the Nigerian Workers and the entire citizenry.

“Considering the various policies made in the past, the political office holders should also make sacrifice for the nation by reducing their allowances”.

He pointed out that if the Federal government refuses to review the price of petroleum products downward and stop over taxing the common man, NLC should not collect any amount ess than hundred thousand naira as the new minimum wage for civil Servants.

Also in separate interviews with Radio Nigeria, President, The Nigeria Union of Local Government Employees, NULGE and Chairman, Parliamentary Staff Association of Nigeria, PASAN, Osun State Chapter , Doctor Kehinde Ogungbamigbe and Alhaji Adekunle Adesina, described civil servants as the engine room of National Development, “hence the need to efficiently prioritize thier welfare”.

Doctor Ogungbamigbe said, ” The purpose of today’s Shutdown,is the fact that the Federal Government has decided or refused to listen to the agitations of the Nigerian Labour Congress, NLC and the Trade Union Congress, TUC on the this new minimum wage”.

In his own words , Alhaji Adesina said, “representatives of the various unions had sampled prices of commodities across major markets in the Country and came up with the amount an average household can survive with the present economic situation.”

Reacting to the recent statement credited to the Senate President, Mr. Godswill Akphabio that, the increase in minimum wage to the benchmark labour unions are requesting would led to high unemployment rate, The Labour Leaders frowned at the statement stressing, that the nation possessed the natural resources required to take care of its work force.

Recall that ,the meeting between representatives of the Federal government, leadership of the National Assembly and officials of the Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC and the Trade Union Congress , TUC over the proposed national minimum wage ended in deadlock on Sunday night.

Labour

Strike: Labour Leaders Storm Offices, Chase out Workers

By Web News 387

By Iyabo Adebisi, Rotimi Famakin

The leadership of the organized labour in Oyo stormed the Agodi state Secretariat,Ibadan to enforce compliance of the indefinite strike  declared by the Union over the proposed national minimum wage impasse with the federal government. 

There was partial compliance with the strike at the Secretariat, earlier on Monday as workers entered freely due to non-closure of the gate. 

The enforcement team led by the Chairman of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) Mr Kayode Martins and his Trade Union Congress (TUC) counterpart, Mr Bosun Olabiyi stormed various offices and directed workers who had earlier resumed duties across ministries within the secretariat to leave.

Speaking with newsmen, Mr Olabiyi categorically told Oyo state civil servants to stay away from work until further directives from the national body.

Mr Olabiyi maintained that the labour was not fighting the current administration but r agitating for a living wage in view of the economic realities.

However, Federal workers complied totally with  the strike declared by the Nigeria Labour Congress,NLC, over the new national minimum wage. 

Radio Nigeria correspondent who monitored the situation at the Federal Secretariat in Ibadan reported that all ministries had been shut down except for emergency workers such as the Federal Fire Service.

A top official of the Fire Service, who preferred to remain anonymous, stated that it was necessary for them to be on duty as a paramilitary body in case of emergency situations.

Similarly, government owned primary and secondary  schools in Ibadan, Oyo capital have been closed.

Our correspondent who  visited Oladipo Alayande School of Science, Ibadan Boys High School, Oke Bola,  Emmanuel Grammar School,U.I,reports that students who arrived their schools for their academic work were directed to go home while the main gates leading to the school premises were locked.

The closure according to our correspondent led to most of the affected students returning home while others use the opportunity  to play football game.

At Ibadan Boys ‘ High School, most of the classrooms were locked while few teachers supervising students sitting for their physics practicals in the ongoing West African Examination Council WAEC were sighted in the school ‘s laboratory.

Labour

Union Hails Abiodun for Pension Payment

By Web News 333

By Oluwatoyin Adegoke

The Nigeria Union of Pensioners, Ogun State Council has described the recent release of two billion naira to its members by Governor Dapo Abiodun as evidence of his commitment to further reducing the backlog of accrued gratuities to pensioners in the state.

In a joint statement by the Chairman, Comrade Wasiu Oloyede and the Union’s Secretary, Dr Bola Lawal, the older citizens applauded the gesture, noting that the government had been sincere and humane to pensioners.

They acknowledged the regular and prompt payment of monthly pensions, the extension of the payment of 10,000 fuel subsidy palliatives by 9 months which ended in March 2024, as well as the inclusion of retirees among the beneficiaries of the government’s subsidized – rice sales outlet.

They also appealed to the State government to release the much awaited Consequential Increase in Pensions before the implementation of the proposed new wage increase in a bid to uplift the vulnerable and very aged few getting paltry earnings.

The Pensioners body expressed the hope that its members’ aspirations would be favourably attended to in no distant time, and promised their continued support to the present administration in the State.

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Labour

NUJ FRCN Chapel Congratulates Alamu

By Web News 214

By Dayo  Adu

Following the inauguration of Comrade Omolola Alamu as the Chairperson of Nigeria Association of Women Journalists (NAWOJ), Oyo State chapter, the Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ, FRCN Chapel, has sent a message to felicitate with the association.

In a statement jointly signed by the NUJ Chairman, Mr Oluwakayode Banjo and Secretary, Mr  Opeyemi Olugbenga, the chapel expressed delight at the emergence of  Mrs Alamu, who they described as a thorough bred journalist that would oversea the affairs of the association.

The Chapel commended Comrade Alamu’s doggedness, perseverance and tenacity in her aspiration to lead the association, charging her to use her wealth of experience to reposition Oyo NAWOJ to an enviable height.

Comrade Alamu, a staff of Radio Nigeria Ibadan and dedicated member of the chapel, was inaugurated on Monday alongside other executives at the Dapo Aderogba hall, NUJ press centre, Iyaganku, Ibadan.

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Labour

Labour Say No To FG N60k Offer, Insist N494k

By Web News 339

The Federal Government has added a sum of N3,000 to its initially proposed N57,000 minimum wage, making it the sum of N60,000 proposed on Tuesday during a meeting of the tripartite committee on minimum wage in Abuja.

Organised labour, comprising the Trade Union Congress, TUC, and the Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, also went down by N3,000 from its last proposal of N497,000 during the last minimum wage meeting.

According to a source who gave the breakdown at the Tuesday meeting, the amount proposed by the government did not go down well with labour leaders.

A member of the union who spoke to our corres before the meeting started noted that organised labour would only go lower if the government went higher on its demands.

“This is simply a case of if they go higher, we will go lower. They need to propose something reasonable for us to propose something lower too. There is no two-way about it.

“Also, we have a way of meeting as members of the Labour before each committee meeting. This will help us to take a uniform stand by the time we get to the meeting front.

“So as long as the government is ready to present something reasonable, we will meet them in the middle,” the labour leader said.

Details later

Punch / Titilayo Kupoliyi

Labour

Workers Hail Obaseki as Edo Pays N70,000 Minimum Wage

By Web News 386

The Edo State government has commenced the payment of N70,000 minimum wage to workers in the state.

The Chairman Nigeria Labour Congress, Edo State Chapter, Odion Olaye, confirmed the payment of the new salary and commended the state government for fulfilling his promise to the workers.

He said Governor Godwin Obaseki had demonstrated his commitment to the welfare of the workers by the gesture, while calling on the workers to reciprocate the gesture by creating more wealth for the state by redoubling their efforts.

Olaye said, “I can confirm to you that the salary increase has been effected and workers are now earning N70,000 as minimum wage. I commend the governor for this”.

“I will also urge the workers who are wealth creators to reciprocate the kind gesture of the governor and redouble their efforts towards making the state great.”

The N70,000 minimum wage  was in fulfilment of the promise made by Obaseki, during the inauguration of the Labour House on April 29, 2024.

Obaseki, during the inauguration of the Labour House in Benin City, announced the increase of the minimum wage for workers in the state from N40,000 to N70,000, to reflect the current economic realities in the country

In a statement on Sunday, the Commissioner for Communication and Orientation, Chris Nehikhare, said the payment of the N70,000 minimum wage to the workers further demonstrated the commitment of the administration to the welfare of workers.

He said, “The Edo State government has paid the May salaries of workers in the state, reflecting the implementation of the N70,000 new minimum wage“.

“This is in fulfilment of the promise made by Governor Godwin Obaseki to increase the minimum wage from N40,000 to N70,000, beginning this May, as part of efforts to cushion the impacts of the harsh economy occasioned by fuel subsidy removal and other economic decisions by the Federal Government“.

“It is also in furtherance of the commitment of the state government to meet its statutory obligation, even before the end of the month.”

The commissioner urged workers to remain committed to their contribution to the growth of the state and also reciprocate the gesture by the state government to their welfare.

Punch/Simeon Ugbodovon

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Labour

NLC Affirms Objection to N48,000 New Minimum Wage Proposed By Govt.

By Web News 548

The Nigeria Labour Congress has warned that it would rather mobilise workers to remain at home with their families or offer free services than accept the paltry N48,000 new minimum wage being offered by the Federal Government when they meet on Tuesday.

The Deputy President of the NLC Political Commission, Prof. Theophilus Ndubuaku, disclosed this in an exclusive interview with The Punch on Sunday.

On Wednesday, the NLC and the Trade Union Congress had walked away from the negotiation table after the FG offered to pay N48,000, a figure far below the N615,00 the unions demanded as the new national minimum wage.

After the session, the labour leaders told newsmen at an emergency press conference that it was ‘an insult to the sensibilities of Nigerian workers.’

But 24 hours after the revolt, the Chairman of the Tripartite Committee on National Minimum Wage, Alhaji Bukar Goni, wrote the aggrieved unionists to return for another negotiation on Tuesday in a letter dated May 16.

But Ndubuaku vowed that the NLC won’t back down until an improved offer is made.

According to him, organised labour finds it preposterous that the FG and even state governors, whose allocations have witnessed a massive boost, could be giving excuses not to pay a robust minimum wage.

He said, “We have given the FG an ultimatum. If the new minimum wage is not out by the end of this month, we will all go and sit at home. Instead of us taking N48,000 per month, we will tell workers to work for free for the government or turn to artisans’ work. That is where we are now.

“I don’t understand the thinking of government. It looks to me like they do things without proper thought. Was the wage award supposed to be a palliative or what? We gave them the breakdown of what the minimum wage looks like.

“Even the National Bureau of Statistics has released a document that shows the average amount for foodstuffs. It is N900. This is even coming from a government agency. Does it mean this government is not in touch with its own agency before coming up with N48,000 as minimum wage? It is either they are living in denial or they just want to insult us.

“We are looking forward to a robust arrangement this Tuesday. We can’t be talking about Renewed Hope without putting up any road map or package to match the hope of the people. They also need to tell us what plan they have for food security, subsidy on transportation even if they have to use CNG buses and other issues like health insurance. By Tuesday, we will go back to see what will come out of it.”

Punch/Simeon Ugbodovon

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Labour

FG Raises Workers’ Salaries  

By Web News 506

By Olukayode Banjo

Federal Government has approved 25% and 35% salary increments for civil servants on the remaining six consolidated salary structures.

The salary structures include; the Consolidated Public Service Salary Structure, Consolidated Research and Allied Institutions Salary Structure, Consolidated Police Salary Structure, Consolidated Para-Military Salary Structure, Consolidated Intelligence Community Salary Structure and Consolidated Armed Forces Salary Structure.

A statement signed by the Head of Press, National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission, Mr. Emmanuel Njoku, notes that the increment takes effect from 1st of January, this year.

According to the statement, the Federal Government also approved an increase in pension of between 20% and 28% for pensioners on the defined benefits scheme in respect to the above-mentioned six consolidated salary structures with effect from 1st of January, this year.

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Labour

Osun Speaker Promises to Prioritise Workers’ Welfare 

By Web News 387

By Mojisola Oladele 

The Speaker, Osun State House of Assembly, Prince Adewale Egbedun has assured that the 8th Assembly would continue to advocate for policies aimed at promoting fair and equitable working environment for workers to thrive and succeed in their respective fields.

Prince Egbedun gave the assurance in a statement by his Chief Press Secretary,CPS, Mr. Olamide Tiamiyu to commemorate Workers’ Day celebration.

While appreciating workers for being hardworking , The Speaker noted that the day is meant to reflect, and acknowledge the invaluable contributions of workers towards the growth and development of Osun State.

Prince Adewale assured workers that  State House of Assembly is committed to ensuring that our workers’ rights are protected, and their welfare is prioritised. 

He added that the commitment of Workers to excellence and passion for service are essential components of the state’s progress.

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Labour

Lawmaker Calls for Improved Welfare for Workers

By Web News 310

By Mosope Kehinde

Chairman, House Of Representatives Committee on Digital and Information Communication Mr Adedeji Olajide has called for improved welfare and well-being of Nigerian workers.

In a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Public Affairs, Tolu Mustapha, in commemoration of Workers day, the lawmaker commended the workers for their dedication and hard work, saying their tireless efforts have kept the nation’s economy running.

Mr Olajide who is representing Ibadan North West/South West federal constituency emphasized the need for better working conditions, improved remuneration, and social protection for workers. 

According to him, “We must prioritize your welfare, provide decent jobs, and ensure that your rights are protected,” he said.

Highlighting his achievements, Mr. Olajide listed several projects and initiatives he had facilitated in the constituency, including the construction of roads, healthcare facilities, and educational infrastructure. 

He also announced plans to establish an ICT training center to equip young people with skills.

Mr. Olajide said, he would continue to push for policies that benefit workers, including the implementation of the new minimum wage and the payment of outstanding arrears.

“We will not rest until our workers receive the compensation they deserve,” he assured.

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Labour

SSANU Ends Warning Strike over Withheld Salaries

By Web News 427

The Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU) has announced the end of its seven-day warning strike to give more room for the government to do the needful.

The president of the association, Mr Mohammed Ibrahim, made the declaration at a virtual stakeholders forum, organised by the Education Writers Association of Nigeria (EWAN) on Sunday in Lagos.

The forum, which also had Mr Ibeji Nwokoma, President of the Non-Academic Staff Union of Educational And Associated Institutions (NASU), in attendance, was on “Withheld Salaries vs Labour Crisis.”

The Joint Action Committee (JAC) of affected university labour unions had, on March 18, directed members to down tools, following their four-month withheld salaries and the non-implementation of the agreement they entered into with the Federal Government in 2009.

“We had a meeting with representatives of the Federal Government in Abuja on Wednesday, and nothing tangible came out concerning the issue.

“Yes, they acknowledged the fact that we were on strike and that the action had paralysed activities on campuses of federal universities.

“So, the meeting was nothing but an appeal to suspend the strike while they do something as soon as possible.

“Now, just imagine a situation where there is no water, no light, no mobilisation of graduates for NYSC, which are all responsibilities of our members in universities.

“The strike will end by midnight. We’ll go back to our various branches to review the outcome of the warning strike, as well as the recent meeting with the federal government, and from there agree on the next line of action.

“We have given a window to do the needful, and failure to meet their own side of the bargain will be met with drastic action, “ he warned.

He noted that it was no longer news that government would make promises only to renege on it, citing the 2009 renegotiation agreement as an instance.

“We have the right to go on strike once we follow the due process. It could be a warning strike, just like the one that is ending this night (Sunday).

“No one can stifle us, or stop us from voicing out our pains.

“We could picket our working places. We could also report to work without working, and so forth.

“All are lawful in the labour law. So, nobody can take them away from us.

“We are not asking for anything outside our rights. We cannot continue this way, because, after all, we too are humans, we are also parents, with bills to pay and mouths to feed,” he said.

The union leader blamed the present state of things on the government’s attitude towards the education sector.

He said that members of unions were using the strike as a last resort to drive home their demands, considering the impact it normally had on the students.

“It is not that the university workers, including SSANU, like to go on strike; it is the government that always pushes us to apply that sanction. It is unfortunate for the government to take serious matters with levity.

“Members of our various unions are very critical in the running of any given university system. We should be taken seriously whenever we make demands, like our counterpart union in the same system.

“We deserve to be treated equally. There should be no preferential treatment. For the government not to have paid us the withheld salaries like our sister union, ASUU, is a great disservice to us.

“I want to say that we will continue to fight against this injustice until the right thing is done,” he said.

He said that the best way to prevent incessant strikes in the entire education sector was to fund it adequately.

“If you spend well on education, you spend less fighting insecurity, hunger, poverty, and others. The government should take a cue from other climes.

“So, the panacea to ending crisis in Nigerian universities, in fact, in the entire sector, is funding and more funding,” he stated.

He noted that since the struggle by members of the various unions to get the government to do the needful, many of them had lost their lives in the last one and a half years due to a lack of funds to access good healthcare.

Mohammed also decried the issue of non-autonomy in the university system, adding that the situation was creating issues for the smooth operation of the system.

He also urged the government to ensure that the appointment of vice-chancellors and principal officers of universities, especially the federal ones, should be based solely on merit rather than through what he described as ‘godfatherism’.

The SSANU leader said that the same must be applied to the appointment of members of governing councils across board. (NAN)

Vanguard/Simeon Ugbodovon

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Labour

Adeleke Approves Due Promotions of Civil Servants

By Web News 351

By Funmi Ojo

Osun State Governor, Senator Ademola Adeleke has approved the due promotions of civil servants after a statutory process supervised by the Head of Service, Mr. Ayanleye Aina, in conjunction with the Civil Service Commission and Local Government Service Commission. 

According to a circular by the Head of Service, the promotion letters for all due personnel for last year have been approved by Governor Ademola Adeleke and are being issued their letters of promotion by their respective Commissions, Ministries, Departments and Agencies.

The Head of Service declared that the promotion followed all due processes as prescribed by the extant Public Service Rules.

Commenting on the promotion exercise, Governor Adeleke reaffirms the commitment of his administration to workers’ welfare.

The Governor noted that the exercise is unarguably in line with the pursuance of Number 1 of the 5 – 5-Point Action Plan of his administration, which is giving the welfare of public servants topmost priority. 

“I assure all civil servants that the public service reform is on course. We will deliver a fully professionalized public service.

“I congratulate the beneficiaries. I urge you to show a deeper passion for public service. Our government will ensure the required opportunity for all to operate and display their spirit of service to the state”, the Governor stated.

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Labour

New Minimum Wage: Ajaero Says NLC Yet to Adopt Position on Amount

By Web News 429

The Nigerian Labour Congress has distanced itself from the N500,000 being canvassed as the new minimum wage, saying it has yet to adopt a position on an amount to be presented to the tripartite committee on the new minimum wage for workers.

The President of the NLC, Joe Ajaero, disclosed this in an interview with Punch correspondent in Yola, Adamawa State.

Speaking at the sidelines of the North-East zonal public hearing by the tripartite committee on national wage, Ajaero noted that the N500,000 and N700,000 being proposed as new minimum wage is unknown to the NLC.

According to him, all the figures flying around should be disregarded because the NLC as a body had yet to adopt a common presentation on the new minimum wage.

He said, “The N500,000, N700,000 you are hearing are being collated at the level of the states. In Lagos and other places, I think they are about N700,000 while in other places they are talking about N500,000 which are inputs collated from geopolitical zones.

“But the NLC secretariat has not made any presentation, these minimum figures are what is coming from the states. When we collate them then we’ll do a central presentation based on the raw materials we are getting from states.

“It (minimum wage) has to be relative to the cost of living in those states. You will agree with me that rent here is not as that in Abuja, and not the same thing as in Lagos. So relatively speaking you won’t have a straitjacket-like presentation by Labour in all the states.”

On his part, the Chairman of the Nigerian Medical Association, Adamawa State, Dr Solomon Bulus, said the Nigerian Medical and Dental Council backed the implementation of the N500,000 new minimum wage because it would drive down the hardship being experienced nationally.

Punch/Simeon

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Labour

 Era of total reliance on salary for survival is gone – NAFOHEADS

By Web News 1178

By Rotimi Famakin

As the Federal Government has taken steps to consider the implementation of the Steve Oransanye report by merging some agencies and departments, workers at the Federal level have been assured of the security of their jobs.

 The President, the National Forum of Heads of Federal Establishment, Agencies and Departments, NAFOHEADS, Oyo State chapter, Dr Stephen Adewuni gave the assurance in an interview with Radio Nigeria after the monthly conference of the association held at the Federal Secretariat, Ikolaba, Ibadan.

Dr Adewuni, who said that the step taken was meant to reduce the cost of governance, explained that the merging of agencies and departments would not translate to job loss for federal workers as anticipated by some individuals.

While encouraging Federal workers to consider investing in agriculture as the farming season commences, Dr Adewuni noted that the era of total reliance on salary for survival had gone as prices of food commodities continued to rise in the market.

 The Oyo state NAFOHEAD president, who enjoined other members to prioritize monthly meetings of the forum, said the association had made numerous resolutions which included a visit to Oyo State Governor, Engineer Seyi Makinde, restructuring of the forum executive in line with the forum’s constitution and sensitization of absenting members on the importance of attending the NAFOHEADS meetings, among others

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Labour

Hardship: Ondo, Oyo, Ogun Workers Join Nationwide Protest

By Web News 494

By Isaac Afolabi, Olubunmi Agboola, Oluwatoyin Adegoke

Ondo State Union leaders today joined their counterparts nationwide to protest against the current economic hardship in the country.

Addressing the peaceful protesters who stormed the governor’s office, Alagbaka Akure for the two days warning strike, Head of Service, Pastor Kayode Ogundele while appreciating the peaceful conduct of the protesters said the government was aware of the current situation and working to ameliorate the hardship.

Pastor Ogundele said the federal government was currently implementing policies to make life more meaningful for workers.

Speaking on the state government interventions for Ondo state workers, the head of service said part of the palliative programs included the thirty-five thousand naira wage award for workers, payment of pension arrears for retirees and free transportation for workers among others.

Pastor Ogundele further announced that health workers in the state would soon start receiving their hazard allowances from the 1st of  March 2024.

Responding, the  Chairman, Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC Ondo State Council, Comrade Victor Amoko appealed to federal and state governments to quickly introduce policies that would better the lives of Nigerians.

While frowning at the high cost of living in the country, Comrade Victor Amoko called on the Ondo State Government for more interventions. 

Our correspondent further reports that NLC affiliate unions including the Nigeria Union of Journalists, NUJ, Nigeria Union of Teachers, and NUT were present during the peaceful protest.

Oyo Workers Storm Streets

Members of the Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, in Oyo State on Tuesday, stormed major streets in Ibadan to express their grievances over the current economic hardship in the country. 

The protest which started around 9 a.m., witnessed a large turnout of workers in the state who trekked from the NLC secretariat to Gate, Total Garden and the state secretariat.

Receiving the governor of Oyo State, Engineer Seyi Makinde appealed to the workers that their agitations would be taken to the President and provided solutions as soon as possible

Reacting, the state chairman of Nigeria Labour Congress in Oyo State, Mr. Kayode Martins said the level of poverty, hike in price of foodstuffs and insecurity bedevilling the country was unbearable.

The protest is expected to continue tomorrow.

Ogun Workers Lament Hardship

The Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, Ogun State chapter has joined their counterparts across the country to protest the prevailing hardship in the country occasioned by fuel subsidy removal and skyrocketing prices of goods, particularly food items.

Protesters who converged on the NLC Secretariat, Leme, Abeokuta and moved through the NNPC road to Kuto Round about chanting solidary song, also displayed placards with inscriptions, like “Let the poor breathe “, “Stop importation of petrol” and “fix refineries now”. 

The leadership of the NLC disclosed that the two-day rally slated for Tuesday and Wednesday was to compel both the federal and state governments to tackle the problem of insecurity, hunger and the continued rise in poverty across the country.

Speaking with journalists, the Chairman of Ogun State NLC, Comrade Hammed Ademola-Benco said that the rally was hinged on getting good deals for Nigerians and not to confront the government.

“The wage award that they promised is still not being paid by many states, the government must stop carrying on as if all is well. We are only calling on the government to be responsible and attend to our demands which is about making lives more rewarding and enjoyable for the people” he stated. 

The Chairman described the industrial action as very successful, claiming that the leadership of the 40 affiliates of the union in Ogun State turned out to participate in the peaceful rally. 

The National Vice President, Committee for the Defence of Human Rights, CDHR, Comrade Yinka Folarin while speaking at the event appealed to the government to live up to the expectations of the renewed hope agenda and come to the aid of the common man in the country.

The security agencies such as the police, DSS and operatives of the Nigeria Security and Civil Defence Corps, NSCDC were on the ground to maintain law and order.

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Labour

Sanwo-Olu Slashes Work Days to 3 for Civil Servants

By Web News 372

Governor Babajide Sanwo-Olu of Lagos State has announced that civil servants from levels 1–14 will begin to work three days a week as part of measures to ease the economic challenges facing residents.

Sanwo-Olu made this announcement during a live media chat, tagged, ‘Sanwo Speaks’ in Lagos on Thursday.

The governor, however, said workers in the teaching sector will maintain the five-day-a-week work schedule, adding that the government will ensure additional transport support for them.

He said, “We want to start with our public servants, immediately from next week, Civil servants from the lower level will be working like three times a week and level 15-17 can work four times in a week.”

On the rising cost of food, he added that his administration would open more markets where Lagosians can buy food items at discounted rates.

He said, “We will open Sunday Markets in at least 42 identified markets across Lagos State. You will be able to buy food items at a discounted price. You will only be able to buy items worth up to N25,000.”

Sanwo-Olu added that the 25% reduction on transport services will start this weekend for the State Public Transport system (BRT, Train, Ferry).

The governor noted that his administration was also in discussions with various transport unions to reduce their fares.

“First is to express empathy with our citizens, We are not unmindful of the situation, as leaders, we must be able to solve socioeconomic problems,” he said.

Governor Sanwo-Olu also challenged the private sector to look into what they can do for the citizens by replicating their role during the COVID-19 pandemic.

Vanguard/Simeon Ugbodovon

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Labour

Walk Your Talk, NLC Tells FG Ahead 2-Day Nationwide Protest

By Web News 441

The Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, on Friday, directed its members and affiliate unions to begin mobilisation for a two-day nationwide protest expected to take place on February 27 and 28, if the federal government fails to implement all the agreements signed with it in October 2023.

The two-day nationwide protest according to the communique signed by the NLC President, Comrade Joe Ajaero and the acting General Secretary, Comrade Ismail Bello will be taking place at the expiration of the 14-day ultimatum it had earlier issued.

President of the NLC, Comrade  Ajaero, who addressed newsmen at the end of the union’s National Executive Council, (NEC) meeting in Abuja, asked his members to be on standby for an indefinite strike which would commence seven days after the nationwide protest if government still fails to meet its demands.

Ajaero noted that Labour was no longer interested in empty talks from the government but actions, urging the government to immediately implement the agreement and restore faith in the democratic process, as Nigerians were struggling to survive.

A communique read by the Congress President at the end of the meeting noted that on Monday,  29th May 2023, President Bola Tinubu announced during his inaugural speech the withdrawal of Subsidy on Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) in Nigeria. 

It said that that singular pronouncement immediately led to the price of the product, which is central to transportation and power in Nigeria, escalated across the nation, throwing the nation into turmoil and confusion as citizens were left stranded, thus increasing suffering, hardship and angst among the populace.

It read: “Series of meetings were held with the federal government culminating in the signing of an Agreement which we now call the October 2 Agreement. This Agreement contained several safeguards which we had believed if implemented conscientiously would have gone a long way to ameliorate the suffering and hardship that the ill-conceived and ill-implemented policies of the government have foisted on the masses and workers

“It also took notice of the decision of the National Administrative Council (NAC) of the both Congresses of the NLC and TUC to demand that the Agreement be implemented. 

“To this end, NEC unanimously noted its deep disappointment and condemned the actions of the federal government in refusing to implement the agreements and reached the following decisions:

“That it reaffirms the 14days notice issued by the federal government within which to implement the Agreement and address the mounting crisis of survival in Nigeria.

“That the Notice expires on the Midnight of Thursday, the 22nd of February, 2024. If on expiration, Congress is not satisfied with the level of the Government’s compliance with the conditions of the Notice, it will be at liberty to take action that will compel the Government to implement the agreement.

“Declares a 2-day National Protest on 27th and 28th of February to demonstrate outrage on the mounting hardship and insecurity around the nation.

“If demands are not met after the nationwide protests to issue a Seven-Day notice that will expire on the 2nd day of March 2024 to the federal government after which an indefinite nationwide strike will ensue.  

“That Nigerian workers and people are not interested in empty talk now but action so, calls on all of affiliates, state Councils and Civil Society Allies to start mobilizing across the nation for effective action as the deadline approaches.

“As such, in light of the urgency of the situation and the continued suffering of the Nigerian people and Workers, the NEC-in-session calls for immediate action from the federal government to rectify these grievances and restore faith in the democratic process and social dialogue.”

Vanguard/Simeon Ugbodovon

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Labour

Makinde Extends Wage Award by Six Months

By Web News 374

By Iyabo Adebisi

Oyo State Governor, Engineer ‘Seyi Makinde, has announced a six-month extension of the payment of N25,000 and N15,000 wage award to civil servants and pensioners in the state.

The governor, who made the announcement at the inauguration of the 12.5 kilometres Challenge-Odo Ona Elewe-Apata Road, said the extension became important to allow the Federal Government to conclude negotiations with the labour unions on a minimum wage. 

Governor Makinde said his administration had continued to meet the expectations of workers and pensioners since it got on board in May 2019 and that it would continue to do so because it is a government that puts people first.

He said: “When this economic crisis started, we gave wage awards to workers. We started in October and said it would be for six months. 

“I wanted that time to be able to sort out what the minimum wage should be. We have not been able to achieve that. So, I am announcing that the wage award will be extended by another six months to give us time to close out on the minimum wage discussion and negotiation.”

Speaking further on the economic situation of the country, Makinde charged Nigerians to keep their heads up amid the difficult times being faced by Nigerians and to join hands to make the country great again.

Governor Makinde noted that despite criticism against the Peoples Democratic Party (PDP) Governors’ Forum, which recently spoke out on the situation in the country, he and his colleagues will remain undeterred and will soon come up with an action plan that will work for the country.

“Let me use this opportunity to talk about the meeting we had a few days ago. We the Governors of the PDP met in Abuja and one of the key issues we discussed was the economic hardship our people are facing. 

“Our focus this time is to help our people overcome the challenges of the time. Some people can continue to play politics and tell lies about how things are, it does not matter. 

“I read a piece where some people said FAAC has doubled for states and local government areas. I think it is just a lazy way to situate things. We must be talking about baking a bigger cake. 

“Why are we even going to Abuja in the first instance to share FAAC? Were they doing that in the First Republic? Yes, FAAC has moved up from about N6bn per month to about N8bn monthly but the responsibilities of government have also increased.

“We all know the reality of the time, no matter how anyone tries to paint it. And, in the weeks and months to come, our dear party will propose an action plan that we believe would work for our nation when adopted. 

“In doing this, we again demonstrate that we care more about the progress of our people than we do about politics. It is just like here in Oyo State where we fix roads that have economic importance whether they belong to the state or federal,” Makinde said.

He appreciated Governor Mbah for honouring the state with his presence, saying that his administration would deliver more dividends of democracy in line with his Roadmap for Sustainable Development, 2023-2027.

In his speech ahead of commissioning the road, the Enugu State governor lauded Makinde for building a lasting legacy in the state, saying: “With the interconnectivity of this project, you can see that the construction and completion did not happen by accident.

 There was a design and concept meant to provide the people of Oyo State with the ease of doing their business, movement and transportation. 

“What is at the epicentre of this project today is the people of Oyo State, and that is what the administration of my brother has continually underscored. 

“So, I want to salute you for your decisiveness and progressiveness, which underscore what our great party, the PDP, represents in governance. Our party knows that government is about the collective interest of the people but not narrow interest.”

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Labour

JUSUN: Adeleke Sets Up Committee to End Strike

By Web News 677

Osun State Governor, Ademola Adeleke, has set up a committee headed by the Secretary to the State Government, Mr. Teslim Igbalaye, to resolve issues that led to the ongoing strike by the Osun chapter of the Judiciary Workers Union of Nigeria.

Courts in the state have been shut since November 22, 2023, when the leadership of JUSUN declared an indefinite strike after they were dispersed by police operatives on the premises of the State High Courtin Osogbo, where they staged protest over non-payment of their wardrobe allowances and alleged high-handedness by the Chief Judge, Justice Adepele Ojo.

A statement by the spokesperson for the governor, Olawale Rasheed, on Sunday, said as part of efforts to end the strike, Adeleke had also given the committee a seven-day ultimatum, adding that letters were also sent to the Attorney General of the Federation and the Chief Justice of Nigeria seeking their support for amicable resolution.

Rasheed said Adeleke set up the committee “with a direct mandate to get this dispute resolved whatever it will take, noting that his action is to restore normalcy and not to interfere in the judicial arm of government.

“We are being careful all along not to be accused of meddling in judicial matters. But it is now almost an emergency. We must get the issues ironed out. I told the national leadership of JUSUN to mediate. I am also reaching out to the Attorney General and the Chief Justice. We need to get our courts running for regular dispensation of justice.

“The committee, led by the Secretary to the State Government, Teslim Igbalaye, is to find a lasting solution to the crisis within the judiciary within seven days.”

Punch/Simeon Ugbodovon

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Labour

FG Seeks Collaboration with Labour Unions on Workers’ Welfare

By Web News 353

The Federal Government has solicited the cooperation of the Nigeria Labour Congress in promoting workers’ welfare and national productivity.

Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Mrs Nkiruka Onyejeocha, stated this in Abuja when she paid a visit to the President and leadership of the Nigeria Labour Congress, NLC, as part of a strategy to mobilize critical stakeholders to align with the government’s agenda in the Labour sector.

Mrs Onyejeocha remarked that without the cooperation of the Labour union, it would be difficult for the government to better the lot of Nigerian workers.

According to the Minister, President Tinubu’s deep concern for the well-being of Nigerian workers was at the forefront of our discussions. I reiterated the government’s desire to partner with the NLC in propelling Nigeria forward towards a brighter future”

She said the government was ready to work with labour unions to promote the wellbeing of workers, as well as boost productivity in the service.

Mrs Onyejeocha decried the use of strikes to resolve industrial disputes as it disrupts the economy.

She therefore urged trade unions to regard strikes as the last resort in seeking resolution of trade disputes, pushing for implementation of agreement, or drawing the attention of government to the plight of workers and citizens.

According to the Minister, “Government is interested in the welfare of Nigerian workers. We are interested in their health and the environment in which they work. We are also interested in the wages they earn”.

“We will partner with you to ensure that Nigerian workers are satisfied. I am sure you will cooperate with the government to make sure our economy improves. Each time you embark on strike, the Nigerian economy goes down, and we incur a lot of losses.” she stated.

Responding, NLC President, Comrade Joe Ajaero, said that the Minister’s visit demonstrated care for Nigerian workers, as well as commitment to collaboration with the union to address their plight.

Comrade Ajaero promised that the Congress would always work together with the government in the interest of the workers.

He, however, urged the government to desist from violating Trade Union rights, and defaulting on agreements reached with Labour, as such actions brew trust gaps.

NLC President urged the Minister to push for the clearing of the backlog of agreements which the government reached with Labour.

FRCN Abuja Adeniyi Bakare/Adetutu Adetule

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