The Minister of Labour and Employment, Barr. Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, has initiated a discussion with the leadership of the Academic Staff Union of Universities, ASUU, to find a way to resolve their issues before they escalate into a major crisis.
During the closed door meeting at the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment, Onyejeocha called on the academic staff union to collaborate with the government for the betterment of the country as a whole.
She emphasized that the current administration’s Renewed Hope Agenda should be a rallying point for all sectors in the country, including education, to work together.
Onyejeocha stressed the importance of ensuring a smooth academic session in Nigeria beyond the year 2024.
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.”
She requested the cooperation of the Union’s leadership, headed by President Comrade Emmanuel Osodeke, in informing the ministry about all the problems faced by the union.
She believed that this would promote understanding and help prevent future industrial disputes.
Our doors are open for dialogue and complete transparency,” she told the ASUU delegation.She noted that by prioritizing open communication and proactive problem-solving, both parties can work together to ensure a smooth academic session in 2024 and beyond, paving the way for a vibrant and flourishing 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.”
