Gov. Seyi Makinde of Oyo State on Monday inaugurated an 11-member adhoc inter-ministerial committee set up to harmonise the various demands of labour unions in the state.
Makinde ,while inaugurating the committee in Ibadan, called on members to be open-minded and to come up with home-grown solutions to issues bordering on workers’ welfare in the state.
He also charged the committee to come up with a report on the modalities for the implementation of workers’ demands.
The governor said that his administration had been proactive in attending to the demands of labour unions and workers.
He noted that this had promoted a cordial relationship between the government and workers and had helped the government to deliver several development projects in the state.
Makinde also commended labour leaders for their consistent cooperation and understanding ,especially since the state successfully negotiated the new minimum wage and consequential adjustment and other modalities for workers’ welfare about four years ago.
He said states should prioritise the welfare of workers ,stressing Oyo had always been proactive in implementing labour agreements .
Makinde charged members of the committee to demonstrate understanding and have an open mind so that the state could get a solution ,fair to all parties.
He said the state government had many responsibilities but limited resources.
The News Agency of Nigeria (NAN ] reports that the committee which is headed by the Secretary to the State Government, Prof Olanike Adeyemi ,has six weeks to complete its assignment.
The state chairman, Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) Mr Kayode Martins, who is a member of the committee, assured that the committee would deliver oni its assignment to cushion the effects of fuel subsidy removal on workers in due time.
The committee members include:Head of Service, Mrs Olubunmi Oni; Attorney-General/Commissioner for Justice, Mr Abiodun Aikomo and Commissioner for Finance, Mr Akinola Ojo.
Others are Commissioner for Establishment and Training, Mr Adeniyi Adebisi; Special Adviser on Labour Matters, Mr Bayo Titilola-Sodo and Executive Assistant on Security, Mr Sunday Odukoya.
State Chairman of Trade Union Congress ,Mr Bosun Olaniyi and State Chairman ,Joint Negotiation Committee, Mr Olanipekun Oluwaseun, are also members.
The Director, Establishment Matters, Ministry of Establishment and Training, Mr Olusola Ojelabi, will serve as the committee secretary.