The President, Muhammadu Buhari has said the Federal Government and other employers of labour will not lay off any worker without proper process in these times of coronavirus pandemic.
This was contained in a statement by the President’s Special Adviser on Media and Publicity, Femi Adesina. The President was represented by the Minister of Labour and Employment, Dr Chris Ngige, who spoke to labour leaders via videoconference to mark the May Day on Friday.
Buhari said, “I understand the anxiety which has plagued the minds of workers over the possibility of job losses due to the economic downturn caused by the pandemic and lockdown especially in the private sector.
“In this regard, the government will ensure that no employer would retrench or lay off workers without going through due process of social dialogue, which includes consultations with workers and with the Competent Authority — Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment.
“Furthermore, I had earlier put in place a Presidential Economic Sustainability Committee with the objective of developing a credible sustainability plan for repositioning the Nigerian economy now and post-COVID-19 crisis period.”
The President pointed out that the committee was created to explore ways to build up the non-oil sector in a quest to reduce the effects of the current pandemic.
He also noted that the committee was tasked with creating new jobs and also to protect existing jobs, so as to assuage the budding numbers of the unemployed even before the crises.
The President noted that the committee was required to specifically explore ways and means of growing the non-oil sector in a bid to minimise the adverse effects of the current crisis.
Buhari praised medical doctors and health workers for their efforts in combating the pandemic.
He said, “These health workers are doing a great service for humanity. I thank you all. I have directed that requisite incentives and hazard allowances enhancement and insurance for lives should be taken at these perilous times in favour of our Health Sector workers as a way of showing our appreciation.
“Also, personal protective equipment for their safety is also guaranteed. Great Nigerian Workers, your resilience in times of adversity is not questionable. I appreciate you all and I know that with collective will and sense of responsibility, as a team, we shall triumph as a nation.
“Observe all the health protocols as already established by the World Health Organisation, in terms of hygiene, wash your hands regularly, observe social distancing, and stay safe.”
