President Bola Tinubu held a late-night meeting with leaders of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) at the State House, Abuja, on Tuesday, in an effort to ease tensions ahead of the union’s planned nationwide protest.
The closed-door meeting was attended by key government officials, including the Chairman of the Progressive Governors’ Forum and Imo State Governor, Hope Uzodimma; Edo State Governor, Monday Okpebholo; Kebbi State Governor, Nasir Idris; and the Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Nkeiruka Onyejeocha.
The labour delegation was led by the President of the NLC, Comrade Joe Ajaero.
Sources said discussions focused on addressing pressing national issues and exploring possible ways to avert the protest scheduled for December 17.
Although no official statement was issued after the meeting, the engagement reflects the Federal Government’s effort to engage labour leaders amid growing public discontent over insecurity, inflation and other socio-economic challenges.
The NLC had earlier insisted there would be no reversal of its decision to proceed with the protest, underscoring the depth of grievances among Nigerians and the potential for widespread disruption if talks fail.
The late-night dialogue highlights both the government’s recognition of the gravity of the situation and the labour movement’s resolve to press its demands.
