The Minister of Labour and Employment, Barr. Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, has met with the leadership of the Academic Staff Union of Universities, ASUU, to find ways to resolve industrial disputes early before they escalate into major crises.
The meeting, which took place at the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment, was held behind closed doors. Onyejeocha urged the academic staff union to collaborate with the government for the benefit of the country as a whole.
She emphasized that the current administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda should be a call to action for all sectors, including education, to work together towards progress.
She insisted on ensuring a smooth academic session in Nigeria in 2024 and beyond.
According to the Minister, “Being a product of the university system, I have a desire to shift the role of the Ministry of Labour and Employment beyond simply mediating disputes during strikes. We should be part of the process to ensure such actions are averted.”
Onyejeocha pleaded with the Union’s leadership, led by its President, Comrade Emmanuel Osodeke, to let the ministry to know about all of the union’s concerns.
She stated that such steps will promote mutual understanding and prevent industrial problems.
“Our doors are open for dialogue and complete transparency,” she told the ASUU delegation.
She stated that by focusing on open communication and proactive problem-solving, both sides can collaborate to ensure a smooth academic session in 2024 and beyond, paving the way for a robust and prosperous educational landscape.
“I crave your indulgence to allow the ministry to know all the issues you think we should know,” she said.
“I want us to be on the same page, from item one to the last, for the sake of the Renewed Hope Agenda.
“Labour Ministry is not supposed to be reactive but be proactive. We should be part of the process to make sure that every issue is addressed.
“I am a product of the university system. We should be on the same page because of the renewed hope agenda.”
