NLC makes fresh demands over FX crisis, meets FG today

Strike: School owners urge labour, FG to forge common grounds

The National Association of Proprietors of Private Schools (NAPPS) has urged Nigeria union bodies against strike action but resorts for peaceful resolution with the Federal Government.

The National President of the Association, Mr Yomi Otubela made this plea in a statement made available to newsmen on Sunday in Lagos.

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Otubela said that the association identified with the struggles of the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC) to improve the living conditions of workers in affiliated organisations.

“It is important that we prioritise the well-being of our nation and work towards a peaceful resolution that benefits the workers, the economy, and the overall social fabric of Nigeria.

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“Rather than resorting to industrial action, we encourage both the federal government and the unions to further engage in constructive dialogue, negotiation, and mediation to find a mutually acceptable solution.

“NAPPS is willing to offer its support and expertise in facilitating the negotiation process to ensure a fair and sustainable resolution for all parties involved,” he said.

Otubela added that their members were enjoined not to participate in the indefinite strike by NLC/TUC commencing on June 3.

“A strike action will disrupt the education sector, affecting both students and teachers.

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“Continued stability in the education system is crucial for the growth and development of our nation.

“The ongoing West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE) will continue as scheduled by the West African Examinations Council (WAEC).

“Students are advised to adhere to the original timetable and ensure timely attendance. Take note that other West African countries that are involved in WASSCE won’t wait for Nigerians,” he said.

Otubela called on school owners and teachers to facilitate a conducive environment for students and staff during this period.

“Communication channels should be opened and maintained to address any arising issues promptly. You can reach us for help through info@napps.com.ng,” he said.

The NLC and TUC had declared a nationwide strike beginning from Monday, June 3, over the tripartite committee’s inability to agree on a new minimum wage and hike in electricity tariff.

Strike: WAEC appeals to NLC, TUC to consider candidates

The West African Examinations Council (WAEC) has appealed to the organised  labour to consider  students  sitting for  West African  Senior Secondary Certificate Examination, as it plans an indefinite strike.

The Head of National Office of WAEC, Dr Amos Dangut, who made the appeal in an interview on Sunday in Lagos, said that the council shared in the concerns of the organised labour and those of the entire Nigerian workers.

According to him, most of WAEC’s employees in Nigeria are  members of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) or Trade Union Congress (TUC), both of which called for the strike scheduled to start on Monday.

“The attention of the West African Examinations Council (WAEC) has been drawn to a notice of the commencement  of an indefinite strike by NLC and TUC effective Monday, June 3.

“WAEC shares in the concerns of the generality of Nigerian workers, as most of its employees in Nigeria consist of members of both unions.

“It is also worthy of mention that the unions have always been partners with WAEC in the successful implementation of its mandate through the years.

“On this premise, therefore, we wish to, however, gently remind the unions  of the ongoing conduct of the West African Senior School Certificate Examination (WASSCE)  for School Candidates, 2024.

“The examination commenced in Nigeria and other member-countries of WAEC,  The Gambia, Liberia and Sierra Leone, on April 30, and is scheduled to end by June 24.

“The  week, June 3 to June 7, is scheduled for the conduct of such papers as Physics, Economics, Government and Civic Education across the federation and some West African countries,” the WAEC boss said.

According to him, any  disruption in the activities  and arrangements for the conduct of the examination will place candidates at a major disadvantage in their academic pursuits.

“We hereby appeal to all stakeholders and the unions  to cooperate with the council, as always, to allow the continuous smooth and peaceful conduct of the examination as has been scheduled.

“We remain committed to excellence and the service of the Nigerian people within the mandate of the council,” he said.

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