In a recent statement, the Minister announced that the Federal Government has fulfilled 90% of its agreement with Organised Labour from last October.
This update, according to the Labour Minister, Nkiruka Onyejeocha, comes amidst ongoing discussions about the nation’s economy and recent protests organized by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC).
Onyejeocha clarified on Channels Television’s Politics Today that the recent protests, which disrupted economic activities, were not directly related to the government’s commitment to the October agreement. Instead, they were primarily driven by concerns over food inflation.
She reassured the public that food security and economic prosperity remain key focuses of President Bola Tinubu’s administration.
The Minister’s comments followed a meeting with NLC President, Joe Ajaero, where Ajaero clarified that the core issue prompting the protest was the soaring cost of food, rather than any failure on the part of the government to uphold its promises.
Onyejeocha urged patience among Nigerians, likening the administration’s current phase to a “planting season” with the expectation of a bountiful “harvest” shortly.
Among the achievements outlined by Onyejeocha were the government’s actions on several key points from the 15-point memorandum of understanding signed with Organised Labour on October 2, 2023.
These actions include implementing a wage award of N35,000 for workers, inaugurating a committee for the minimum wage, and suspending the collection of Value Added Tax (VAT) on Diesel for six months.
Additionally, she mentioned the release of funds for high-capacity Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses to improve mass transit, although she acknowledged logistical challenges beyond the government’s control, such as shipping delays.
These discussions and actions are set against a backdrop of rising inflation, economic hardship, and the aftermath of petrol subsidy removal, which have collectively heightened the cost of living for Nigerians.