Federal Government’s Progress Report: Key Agreements With Organised Labour On Track

Federal Government’s Progress Report: Key Agreements With Organised Labour On Track

The Federal Government has provided a significant update on the agreements reached with the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC), revealing substantial progress in key areas…..READ ALSO Kaduna State Government Confirms Neutralization Of Notorious ‘Baby-Faced’ Bandit Kingpin, Boderi

Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, disclosed this in a statement released from Abuja, underscoring the government’s commitment to addressing the concerns raised by the labour unions.

Following the 14-day ultimatum issued by the NLC and TUC on February 8, the government has taken decisive steps to honor the 16-point agreement reached on October 2, 2023. Notably, the government has disbursed the N35,000 wage award for four months, with the remaining two months in processing.

Onyejeocha highlighted the inauguration of the Minimum Wage Review Committee and ongoing discussions, signaling the government’s dedication to fair wage standards. Additionally, engagements with stakeholders on various tax incentives have commenced to ensure a conducive business environment.

The government’s swift action to suspend the collection of Value Added Tax (VAT) on diesel since October 2023 has been instrumental in alleviating financial burdens. Furthermore, substantial financial commitments have been made for the provision of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses, aimed at addressing transportation challenges across Nigeria.

Addressing the leadership crises within the National Union of Road Transport Workers (NURTW) and Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria (RTEAN), the government successfully mediated and resolved the issues, ensuring the smooth inauguration of executive bodies and the resolution of contentious issues.

Regarding tertiary education workers’ outstanding salaries, the government has paid four months’ worth to ASUU and is actively addressing similar concerns with other unions. Additionally, vulnerable households, including pensioners, have benefited from the monthly conditional cash transfer program, and efforts to subsidize fertilizer distribution to farmers are underway to enhance agricultural productivity.

The Federal Government’s commitment to fulfilling its obligations and fostering dialogue with organized labour underscores its dedication to promoting industrial peace, worker welfare, and national development.