The President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Comrade Joe Ajaero, has urged labour leaders to aspire to political leadership, saying the experience of former union leaders who moved into government has shown the importance of workers having representatives in positions of authority.
Ajaero made the call in Birnin Kebbi while addressing members of the NLC National Administrative Council (NAC) during a dinner hosted by Kebbi State Governor, Nasir Idris.
He described Kebbi State as a second home for the NLC, particularly following the emergence of a former labour leader as governor.
Ajaero noted that Governor Nasir Idris, who previously served as Deputy National President and Acting President of the Congress, played a significant role in the development and influence of the labour movement.
The NLC president said the Congress would continue to explore opportunities for more former labour leaders to occupy political offices, stressing that such positions could enable them to influence policies and improve the welfare of workers.
He also praised Governor Idris for what he described as the ongoing transformation of Kebbi State and assured him of the NLC’s continued support.
Ajaero explained that the NLC leadership had made several visits to Kebbi because of the peaceful and secure atmosphere in the state, despite what he described as negative publicity about the state.
He added that the Congress would continue visiting Kebbi and maintaining its relationship with the governor.
Responding, Governor Nasir Idris described the NLC leadership as members of his extended family, saying his previous involvement in the labour movement equipped him with experience that has helped him in his responsibilities as governor.
The governor dismissed negative reports about Kebbi as opposition propaganda, insisting that his administration had made significant progress in different sectors of the state.
Idris also commended the NLC and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) for their cooperation with his administration.
He urged labour leaders to maintain unity and brotherhood among Nigerian workers, saying a united labour movement would be in a stronger position to advance the interests of its members.
The governor further reaffirmed his administration’s commitment to the welfare and wellbeing of civil servants and other workers in the state.
Source: NLC
