The Chairman, Academic Staff of Universities (ASUU), University of Ibadan chapter, Prof Ayoola Akinwole, has urged President Bola Tinubu and state governors to prioritise the welfare and working conditions of Nigerian workers.
Akinwole noted that the socio-economic situation in the country, the post-fuel subsidy removal backlash, and current fuel scarcity affect the working class and their families adversely.
In a statement to mark this year’s May Day celebration, he noted that Nigerian workers continue to contribute to the development of Nigeria despite being undervalued and underpaid by the various levels of government, including private organisations.
According to the ASUU boss, the 2024 Worker’s Day is a reminder of the unfulfilled promises of the federal and state governments to improve the poor wages and working conditions of Nigerian workers.
The don noted that it was inconceivable that those in government exploit their states’ resources while some even loot for their unborn children while workers are left pauperised.
While thanking the Nigerian security forces for their efforts to make Nigeria safer, Akinwole called on Tinubu to ensure a special welfare package for families of those who have lost their lives while defending Nigeria.
Akinwole asked Tinubu to conclude agreements with ASUU and improve the working conditions for the intellectual community in Nigeria.
He said if this is done, it would reduce the latest trend where brilliant Nigerians are running away from taking lecturing jobs in Nigerian universities.
The don added that Tinubu should also address the drift and jointly approve a living wage and improved working conditions for lecturers in public universities in Nigeria, noting that Nigerian lecturers still in the country are the last set of patriots who deserve special salaries and better working conditions.
