The Trade Union Congress has directed its affiliate unions to suspend the industrial action declared over the Federal Government’s concession of King’s College, Lagos, to the institution’s Old Boys’ Association.
The directive followed an emergency meeting between the TUC leadership and the Minister of Education, Tunji Alausa, in Abuja on Monday.
The development is expected to pave the way for the immediate resumption of academic activities in federal unity colleges across the country after the unions directed workers not to resume following the controversy surrounding the concession arrangement.
The Association of Senior Civil Servants of Nigeria and other unions under the Federal Ministry of Education had opposed the proposed public-private partnership involving King’s College and the King’s College Old Boys’ Association.
The unions had expressed concern that the concession could undermine workers’ employment and conditions of service, with the ASCSN warning that thousands of employees could be affected.
However, following Monday’s meeting, the TUC Secretary-General, Nuhu Toro, said the concerns raised by the unions had been presented to the minister and addressed during the discussions.
Toro stressed that the suspension of the industrial action was not a permanent withdrawal of the unions’ objections.
“The issues bothering us have been laid bare, and of course, those that were critical to us were also brought to the fore,” he said.
He added that the minister provided explanations on the issues raised by the labour representatives.
FG assures workers of job security
Alausa, while addressing the unions, reportedly assured them that no worker would lose their job as a result of the King’s College concession.
Following the agreement, the minister directed all federal unity colleges to resume academic activities immediately.
To further address the concerns surrounding the concession agreement, Alausa announced the establishment of a seven-member high-level committee to review additional recommendations and determine those that could be incorporated into the agreement already signed with the TUC.
The committee comprises two representatives of the Federal Ministry of Education, including the Minister of State for Education and the Acting Permanent Secretary; one representative of the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment; two senior TUC officials; and two representatives of the King’s College Old Boys’ Association.
The committee has been given two weeks to complete its assignment and submit its recommendations.
The minister further assured that both academic and non-academic employees would continue to be treated in accordance with the applicable public service rules.
'
'Do you want to share a story with us? Do you want to advertise with us? Do you need publicity for a product, service, or event? Contact us on WhatsApp +2348183319097 Email: platformtimes@gmail.com
We are committed to impactful investigative journalism for human interest and social justice. Your donation will help us tell more stories. Kindly donate any amount HERE
