Niger Seeks Dialogue As Workers Begin Indefinite Strike

Following the notice of indefinite strike issued by organised labour in Niger State, the state government said it has moved to avert the indefinite strike.

The organised labour had last December 20, issued a notice to the state government demanding the reversal of appointment of executive directors of administration, finance and other related portfolios within the government agencies.

The unions also demanded the reversal of appointment of director-generals in some agencies not backed by some extant laws and no- payment of wage award.

Labour yesterday however said appointment of permanent secretaries without recourse to the core civil service would not be acceptable henceforth and therefore called for an indefinite strike starting from today.

The state government in a response by the SSG, Abubakar Usman said   government appreciates the position of organized labour on certain contentious matters and assures the public, particularly the civil servants and the organized labour of its readiness to dialogue and amicably address demands of Labour in the best interest of the state.

He said the present administration had enjoyed cordial relationship with  the organized labour and  in furtherance of this understanding, the government of Niger State has  invited organised labour to a meeting by 2 pm yesterday with the hope to receive its cooperation in this regard.

The SSG stressed that the government is disposed to continuous discussion with the organized labour, assuring the general public that the administration is labour friendly and remained open to dialogue and negotiations that will move Niger State forward.