"Anticipations Outlined by Labour Leaders for Newly Appointed Minister"

Two labor leaders emphasized the importance of the incoming Minister of Labour showing empathy towards workers, particularly during a challenging economic period. The leaders shared their thoughts in separate interviews with the News Agency of Nigeria in Lagos, ahead of the inauguration of the new ministers by President Bola Tinubu on Monday.

Mrs. Funmi Sessi, Chairperson of the Lagos Chapter of the Nigeria Labour Congress, expressed confidence in Mr. Simon Lalong, who has been assigned the role of Minister of Labour and Employment. She believed Lalong's past experience as a former governor of Plateau State would contribute positively to handling labor-related issues.

Sessi hoped that Lalong would continue his good working relationship with labor unions and extend it to national labor centers, benefitting workers across sectors and employment types. She stressed the importance of equitable distribution of wealth generated by workers.

Sessi emphasized that the labor sector required a minister with compassion, experience, and a humane approach to create more opportunities for employment and increase productivity.

Similarly, Mr. Aladetan Abiodun, Secretary of the Trade Union Congress of Nigeria's Lagos State Council, pointed out the challenging situation the new Minister for Labour would face due to the removal of fuel subsidies. This decision had adversely affected individuals with fixed incomes.

Abiodun expressed concern that if not managed properly, this issue could escalate into a major industrial crisis. He called for a proactive minister who could swiftly address issues such as the new minimum wage and enhance labor inspections. He also highlighted the need for the Ministry of Labour to ensure compliance with labor laws, especially by foreign companies that often disregard them.

In summary, two labor leaders stressed the importance of the incoming Minister of Labour being empathetic, experienced, and capable of addressing current challenges faced by workers, including issues related to fuel subsidies, minimum wage, and labor law enforcement.