NEC appeals to NLC, TUC for continued dialogue, suspension of planned strike
The National Economic Council (NEC) has issued a plea to the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) not to abandon the path of dialogue in their pursuit of improved welfare for their members.
The council further urged the unions to consider suspending their planned nationwide indefinite strike scheduled to commence on October 3.
Governor Caleb Mutfwang of Plateau State conveyed this message during a press briefing following the NEC meeting held in Abuja.
He emphasized the critical moment in the nation’s history and the efforts made by some states to resolve labor issues upon assuming office in May.
Governor Mutfwang pointed out that the initiation of another industrial action at this juncture would be detrimental to both state and federal economies.
The NEC expressed genuine concern about the situation and called for patience and calm among Nigerians.
The NEC’s deliberations centered on the impending indefinite strike called by the NLC’s national leadership, scheduled to commence on October 3, 2023.
The council recognized the strike’s potential economic impact and appealed to labor unions to maintain engagement with their respective state governments.
NEC’s appeal sought to encourage the suspension of the strike action, promoting continued dialogue with the Federal Government.
The council acknowledged the valid concerns raised by the NLC and expressed readiness to address those concerns over time.
Governor Mutfwang also noted that President Bola Tinubu was scheduled to address the nation on October 1, and some labor concerns would be addressed in his speech.
NEC emphasized that labor issues are diverse across the 36 states and the Federal Capital Territory, and discussions at the state levels would be crucial in finding solutions.
The council thereby recommended that dialogue remains the recommended approach to address the demands of labor effectively.
