By Adedapo Adesanya
The Senate President, Mr Ahmad Lawan, has called for a speedy and amicable resolution to the incessant face-off between the federal government and the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU).
In a statement issued to mark this year’s Workers’ Day, the number three citizen of the country assured workers that the National Assembly will continue to partner with the organised labour to address issues relating to them.
He disclosed that “Nigerian workers deserve our appreciation and respect for their contributions to the development of our country.
“I also salute them for their patriotic cooperation with the government and other institutions in the collective efforts to address societal challenges.
“There is no gainsaying the fact that Labour creates wealth for the nation, the more reason that the welfare of the Nigerian workers should always be accorded priority.
“As Parliament, the National Assembly will continue to partner with the Organised Labour in addressing issues that affect workers and the generality of the Nigerian people.
“Despite the prevailing challenges, the relationship between Labour and the Government should be cooperative in the overall interest of the country.
“In the spirit of May Day, I appeal for a speedy and amicable resolution of the ongoing negotiations between the Federal Government and the Academic Staff Union of Universities (ASUU) to ensure that our universities reopen for learning and research.
“We should always be mindful that no society can make meaningful progress without industrial peace and harmony.
“Once again, I say congratulations to all Nigerian workers and wish them a happy May Day.”
On his part, the Speaker of the House of Representatives, Mr Femi Gbajabiamila, commended the resilience, commitment and dedication of the Nigerian workers, and said their efforts would never go in vain.
In a statement by his Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Mr Lanre Lasisi, the number four citizen of Nigeria said he was glad that the Nigerian workers have lived up to expectations over the years, noting that they remain the backbone of the Nigerian working force.
The Speaker said every well-meaning Nigerian must identify with the workers because of their invaluable contributions to nation-building.
He urged Nigerian workers to keep hope alive stating that governments at all levels as well as the private sector are trying to make life better for them.
Mr Gbajabiamila said he was proud of the Nigerian workers because of the way they have been conducting themselves over the years.
Modupe Gbadeyanka