The Nigerian Minister of Labour and Employment, Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, has reiterated the government’s commitment to implementing agreements with trade unions during separate meetings with the leadership of the Trade Union Congress (TUC) and the Congress of University Academics (CONUA) in Abuja.
During the meeting with TUC, the minister assured the union that the government is working to fulfil trade union agreements.
She emphasized that the payment of the N35,000 wage award is ongoing, and any outstanding payments will be settled soon.
Onyejeocha also expressed the government’s determination to address the new national minimum wage issue.
She said: “I am here specifically to reassure you that we have not forgotten about the agreements between the government and trade unions. Thank God that you have confirmed that the Federal Government has started paying the N35,000 wage award and I can assure you that the payment is on course and the outstanding would be paid within a short period of time.
“I know that the president is focused on making sure that the issue of a new national minimum wage is addressed. The government will ensure that the committee starts working in earnest.
“I do not want to wait for any stakeholder to start agitating. That is why I have come to remind you that I am aware of those agreements, and we are working round the clock to make sure they are fulfilled. If there is any that we cannot fulfil now, including the past ones, we will continue our engagements on them.”
The President of TUC, Festus Osifo, appreciated the minister’s visit and acknowledged the government’s efforts in fulfilling a significant portion of the agreement with the Road Transport Employers Association of Nigeria (RTEAN). Osifo urged the government to fulfil the remaining 20% of the agreement.
In the meeting with CONUA, the minister reiterated the government’s willingness to collaborate with unions and address their concerns.
The CONUA Chairman, Niyi Sunmonu, expressed optimism for a strike-free future, highlighting the importance of continued understanding and commitment from the government.
