Nigeria Employers Consultative Association (NECA) has commended the federal government, the Trade Union Congress and the Nigeria Labour Congress for the resolution reached to avert the indefinite strike in the country.

In an interview on Tuesday in Abuja, Smatt Oyerinde, NECA director-general, gave the commendation.

TUC and NLC threatened to embark on an indefinite nationwide strike on October 3 to press home their demands over the effect of the removal of subsidy that have brought untold hardship to the masses.

Mr Oyerinde said, “We commend the resolution of the logjam. This vindicated our consistent position that social dialogue remains the most veritable way to resolve any issue. It is important to state that while the unnecessary disruption of economic activities has been averted.

“There is a need for the government to live up to its commitment and fulfil the terms of the resolution and labour to also ensure improved productivity to get the wheel of production going. Employers will continue to insist on and advocate a peaceful industrial environment as a pillar for economic and national renaissance.”

He further advised the federal government to ensure it lives up to its promises to workers and citizens to avoid an outbreak of further industrial action.

The NECA chief said the effects of the strike on private-sector businesses were unimaginable. He noted that private sector businesses were going through a lot to stay afloat, which was not what the government should be allowed to happen.

“Anything that would compromise our ability to continue to pay salaries, I think it should be taken into consideration if you compromise the ability of the business to meet its obligations to its creditors,” stated Mr Oyerinde. “Imagine a business that has borrowed from the banks in naira or dollars. When we go on strike, payment of interest does not go on strike, or payment of tax to the government.”

He added, “Workers will also expect to be paid salaries during the period. The strike is not for us as it would further cripple businesses. It would also compound the businesses’ problems and also compound the realities of job security and salaries payment for the employees.”

Mr Oyerinde, however, commended President Bola Tinubu’s commitment to fix the economy and alleviate the suffering of Nigerians and organised businesses.

(NAN)