The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has tasked its youth wing to rise to the challenges facing the nation and play a crucial role in shaping its future.
Addressing the youth at the 3rd Quadrennial Delegates Conference of the NLC National Youth Council in Abuja yesterday, the labour centre president, Comrade Joe Ajaero charged them on the need for proper leadership, resilience, and determination to counteract economic and social challenges.
Reflecting on Nigeria’s history, Ajaero lamented the diminishing opportunities for young people in leadership positions compared to previous generations.
However, he stressed that through organisation and determination, the youth could overcome these barriers and save the nation from its current plight.
Ajaero urged the youth to resist the urge to emigrate in search of greener pastures.
The NLC president also announced plans to establish youth executive councils across all state councils to provide platforms for young leaders to address pressing issues and amplify their voices within the trade union movement.
He said, “I saw a generation with ministers at 25, 26, and heads of state at 29, in this country, it’s not possible today, but no one will build our nation for us, running away is not an option.
“The strength and future of the Nigeria Labour Congress depend on you. You must reimagine our nation, the trade union movement, and the critical role you can play in shaping a platform for a nation that works for all. ”
Ajaero further charged the youth to take ownership of their roles in building a resilient and adaptive union capable of withstanding exploitation and oppression.
The conference was themed, “Youth and the New World of Work: Imperative of a New Social Contract”, where stakeholders examined the rapidly changing landscape of labour driven by automation, gig work, and global economic shifts.
Speaking on the theme, Ajaero urged the youth to renegotiate the social contract to centre justice, fairness, and equity in the evolving world of work.
