The Federal Government has urged organised labour to place unity, collective progress, and members’ welfare above personal ambition and self-interest.
The Minister of Labour and Employment, Muhammad Dingyadi, made the appeal on Tuesday in Abuja during a courtesy visit by the leadership of the National Association of Scrap and Waste Dealers Employers of Nigeria (NASWDEN).
Dingyadi warned that when leaders pursue individual dominance at the expense of collective goals, unions risk weakening their structures and neglecting the needs of members.
“Unity breeds peace and progress. When leaders prioritise the union, they not only strengthen their organisation but also contribute to the nation’s development. An organisation is always greater than any individual. Leadership is about service, not personal gain,” he said.
The minister commended NASWDEN’s leadership for embracing cohesion over division, adding that their example should inspire other unions. He also pledged the ministry’s support to help the association achieve its objectives.
Earlier, NASWDEN National President, Mr. Uko Iwaudofia, credited the association’s unity to members’ collective resolve, aided by the minister’s timely intervention. He reaffirmed the union’s commitment to amplifying members’ voices and safeguarding their welfare.
A founding member, Mr Akilu Muhammad, also expressed gratitude to the minister, describing his role in resolving the union’s crisis as pivotal in restoring peace and charting a new course for NASWDEN.
