The Federal Government and Organised Labour reached a new agreement on Wednesday aimed at addressing the soaring prices of transport and essential goods, particularly food items. This move comes in response to growing public unease over inflation and the escalating cost of living in Nigeria.
The agreement was announced following a meeting at the Office of the Secretary to the Government of the Federation, coinciding with a call from the House of Representatives for the government to reverse the recent increase in petrol prices.
According to Vanguard, the key agreements include:
1. Modalities to Reduce Costs: The Federal Government and Labour agreed on strategies to lower transport fares and prices of essential commodities, especially foodstuffs.
2. CNG Initiatives: The government will distribute over 2,000 Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) conversion kits and 45 CNG buses to Labour, contributing to the goal of reducing transport costs.
3. State Governors’ Meeting: A meeting will be convened with state governors to ensure the new minimum wage of ₦70,000 is fully implemented nationwide.
4. Continuous Engagement: Both parties committed to ongoing discussions to improve their relationship and address issues collaboratively, preferring dialogue over conflict.
5. Incorporation into Economic Council: Labour will be integrated into the Economic Council, allowing for better monitoring and participation in economic policymaking.
6. Addressing Outstanding Payments: The government promised to pay all outstanding wage awards and arrears to workers and to establish boards with Labour representatives.
7. Refinery Completion: The government pledged to expedite the completion of nearly five refineries.
8. Acknowledgment of Past Issues: The government acknowledged shortcomings in honoring previous agreements and promised to improve moving forward.