The Bayelsa State Government has commended the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) for their collaboration in advocating for workers’ welfare.
The commendation was made by Deputy Governor Lawrence Ewhrudjakpo during a meeting with the state’s National Minimum Wage Committee, representatives of the NLC, TUC, and the Joint Negotiating Council (JNC) on Wednesday in Yenagoa.
He praised the leaders of the mainstream labour movement in the state for their “civilised” approach and positive disposition towards labour-government relations.
Ewhrudjakpo reaffirmed the administration’s commitment to improving workers’ welfare within available resources.
“On behalf of the governor, I commend the mainstream labour for your cooperation. It is through this cooperation that the government has prioritised the completion of the Labour House despite scarce resources,” he stated.
“I always maintain that cooperation is not a sign of weakness; rather, it fosters progress for all parties involved. True unionism must be distinguished from mere agitation.”
He urged the Niger Delta University (NDU) chapter of the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) and other unions to emulate the NLC and TUC, cautioning against the indiscriminate use of strike actions in resolving trade disputes.
In response to concerns raised by labour representatives, Ewhrudjakpo established a committee headed by Deputy Chief of Staff Irorodamie Komonibo to assess and address grievances related to consequential adjustments following the implementation of the new minimum wage.
State NLC Chairman Simon Barnabas, JNC Chairperson Mrs Embeleakpo Andabai, and TUC Chairman Laye Julius expressed appreciation to the government for constructing and furnishing a befitting Labour House. They also welcomed the opportunity to engage with the committee to determine fair and appropriate figures in reviewing the minimum wage implementation.
In a separate development, the Bayelsa State Government has established the Bayelsa State Transport Management Committee Taskforce to oversee the enforcement of transport sector regulations.
