NANS Calls for Suspension of NLC, TUC Proposed Strike

The National Association of Nigerian Students (NANS) has appealed to the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) to suspend their proposed strike in the interest of the nation.

Mr Pedro Obi, NANS National President, made the appeal at a news conference in Abeokuta on Saturday.

NLC and TUC had issued a 14-day nationwide strike notice to the government on February 8 over the failure to implement the agreements reached on October 2, following the removal of the fuel subsidy.

Obi acknowledged that the association empathizes with the pains Nigerians, especially the youth and the student community, are experiencing due to the current hardship.

He expressed strong belief that the planned strike, if embarked on, would further worsen the economic crisis in the country.

While recognizing the right of the labour unions to make demands and embark on a strike to assert their points, Obi appealed for a reconsideration of the decision.

He urged them to consider the potential impact on insecurity, the economy, and, most importantly, the academic progress of students nationwide.

“While recognizing the importance of addressing labour-related concerns and advocating for workers’ rights, we kindly urge the labour unions to explore alternative means of dialogue and negotiation with the relevant authorities.

“A strike, though a powerful tool, can lead to civil unrest and further worsen the security and economic situation of the country,” he said.

He further urged the Federal Government to expedite the process of implementing the new minimum wage, stating that it would significantly address the plights of the people.