From Taiye Joseph, Ilorin
The Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, has underscored the significance of dialogue and skill acquisition in fostering industrial peace and driving national progress.
Speaking at the 10th National Labour Summit and Award Ceremony organized by the Michael Imoudu National Institute for Labour Studies (MINILS) in Ilorin, Kwara State, Onyejeocha, applauded the institute for its pivotal role in promoting dialogue and industrial harmony.
“This summit aligns seamlessly with President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda, which is focused on empowering citizens and strengthening the economy,” the Minister remarked.
She reiterated the administration’s dedication to equipping Nigerians, particularly youths, with skills for emerging sectors like digital technology, renewable energy, and clean energy.
The Director-General of MINILS, Comrade Issa Aremu, highlighted the summit’s importance in evaluating the impact of President Tinubu’s reform agenda on job creation, wage growth, and industrial harmony.
“Our goal is to align labour education with the Renewed Hope reforms by addressing challenges in the labour market, promoting social justice, and enhancing industrial productivity for sustainable national development,” Aremu stated.
He revealed that MINILS had surpassed its 2024 targets, training over 3,500 workers from various sectors across Nigeria’s six geopolitical zones.
The Chairperson of the Labour Summit Central Planning Committee, Mrs. Olaide Ajiboye, described the event as a crucial platform for fostering collaboration and tackling modern labour market issues.
Traditional ruler, Oba Adeleke Agunbiade Oke, the Ajalaye of Ipetu-Ijesa in Osun State, commended MINILS for its contributions to labour relations in Nigeria.
He urged workers to prioritize peaceful dispute resolutions and avoid actions that could disrupt industrial harmony.
“Nigerian workers must embrace peaceful resolutions and contribute meaningfully to the growth and development of the country,” Oba Agunbiade advised.
The summit brought together stakeholders to strategise on addressing industrial challenges and aligning the labour market with national development goals.