Comrade Joe Ajaero, the President of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), has issued a strong warning to the federal government regarding its stance on workers seeking employment opportunities abroad. During his speech at the 8th Quadrennial Delegates’ Conference of the National Association of Nigeria Nurses and Midwives (NANNM) in Abuja, he emphasized that it is unjust for the government to restrict workers from pursuing better job prospects given the challenging working environment in Nigeria.
Ajaero highlighted the ongoing issues facing workers in the country, stating, “You cannot refuse to pay us decent wages and insist on forcefully keeping us. This is another shape of slavery!” His remarks reflect a growing frustration among labor leaders over the current economic climate, which has compelled many workers to look for opportunities outside the country.
The NLC President praised NANNM’s leadership for its handling of the recent closure of the certificate verification portal by the federal government, which he viewed as an attempt to limit the freedom of nurses and midwives to explore international opportunities. “We commend the exemplary action your leadership took over the issues of the certificate verification portal,” he said, underscoring the importance of advocating for workers’ rights.
In his address, Ajaero urged unity among workers, emphasizing that strength lies in solidarity. “It is only when we stand together, shoulder to shoulder, that we find the strength to weather the storms that may come our way,” he stated, encouraging members to remain vigilant against forces that threaten their rights.
He further lamented the deteriorating economic conditions in Nigeria, noting that “today, the nation’s macro-economic indices are all heading down south without any letting.” Ajaero pointed to rising electricity tariffs and soaring petrol prices as major challenges contributing to widespread hardship. “Transportation has thus become difficult leading to never–seen levels of food scarcity and hunger in the country,” he added.
Addressing the collective responsibility of the labor movement, he urged members to engage creatively with these economic challenges. “Comrades, we need your unity and your strength if we are to creatively engage these forces and make governance work for a greater number of workers and people,” he stated.
Ajaero criticized the continued closure of public refineries, insisting that Nigeria cannot afford to rely on imported refined petroleum products. “It is sad but we cannot afford to keep our public refineries shut while still importing refined petroleum products,” he remarked, calling for the recommissioning of the Port Harcourt, Warri, and Kaduna refineries as per recent agreements with the government.
In a motivational tone, Ajaero urged the new NANNM leadership to prioritize the welfare of healthcare workers. “True leadership transcends titles and positions; it is reflected in the impact you have on the lives of those you serve,” he asserted, emphasizing the need for advocates who prioritize fair working conditions.
On his part, Comrade Michael Nnachi, President of NANNM, expressed gratitude to the outgoing leadership for their service during the past term, which ends on October 31, 2024. He remarked, “I wish to thank and appreciate the outgoing leadership for their various roles and contributions to our professional Association in the last forty-five months.”
However, Nnachi raised concerns about the negative discourse within nursing platforms on social media, which he deemed harmful. “In the last few months, the social media has been inundated with all sorts of unfriendly words, hate speech, campaigns of calumny, and character defamation,” he stated, stressing the need for unity and professionalism among members.
He also reminded those contesting for leadership positions to view elections as democratic processes rather than zero-sum battles. “An election should be seen as a democratic process in which delegates vote to choose a person or group of persons,” he clarified, advocating for a peaceful and fair electoral environment.
Furthermore, Nnachi emphasized that any leadership should work towards promoting the organizational goals of NANNM for the benefit of its members. “The purpose of any leadership should be to promote, protect and work hard towards achievement of organizational goals,” he said, warning against any actions that might sabotage these objectives.
He concluded by stressing adherence to the organization’s Constitution, calling for respect among contestants and delegates. “The entity, NANNM is governed by the contents and provisions of the Constitution which contestants, delegates, and returning officers must strictly adhere to,” he reiterated, emphasizing the need for integrity in leadership.
