President Bola Ahmed Tinubu on Tuesday night held talks with organised labour leaders as part of efforts to address growing tensions over a proposed nationwide protest, signalling renewed engagement between the federal government and labour unions.
The meeting, which brought together key stakeholders in government and the labour movement, focused on dialogue as a means of preventing industrial unrest and easing concerns raised by workers over prevailing socio-economic challenges.
Leading the labour delegation was the President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Comrade Joe Ajaero, who arrived at the State House alongside other union leaders for the closed-door engagement with the President.
Also present were the Chairman of the Progressive Governors Forum and Governor of Imo State, Hope Uzodimma; the Governor of Edo State, Monday Okpebholo; and the Governor of Kebbi State, Dr Nasir Idris. The Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Hon. Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, also participated in the discussions.
According to sources familiar with the meeting, the federal government used the opportunity to appeal for restraint while consultations continue, stressing that dialogue remains the preferred pathway to resolving outstanding labour issues.
One official at the meeting said the President underscored his administration’s willingness to listen to workers’ grievances, noting that “constructive engagement with labour unions is critical to maintaining industrial harmony and national stability.”
Labour leaders, on their part, were said to have reiterated their demands while maintaining that the planned protest was driven by concerns over workers’ welfare and the rising cost of living.
Moreover, the meeting is expected to pave the way for further negotiations between the government and labour unions in the coming days, as both sides seek common ground and avert potential disruptions.