Get Guardian on GooglePresident Muhammadu Buhari has assured Nigerians that his administration would not compound their hardship, but instead create an enabling environment for everyone to thrive.He gave the assurance yesterday when he received the new executives of the Trade Union Congress (TUC) led by its president, Comrade Quadri Olaleye, at the State House, Abuja.
The President regretted that most of the challenges he inherited were avoidable, had previous administrations faithfully invested in infrastructure and human capacity.“On fuel prices, I agree with you on the need to eliminate corruption and inefficiencies in the sector. I want to assure you that, as an administration, we have no intention of inflicting any additional hardship on Nigerians,’’ he pledged.
During the closed-door meeting, Buhari reiterated the commitment of the Federal Government to the implementation of the national minimum wage. He pointed out that the inaugural Federal Executive Council meeting on Wednesday focused on the Medium Term Expenditure Framework (MTEF), which included discussions around the new pay structure.
Earlier, the TUC boss implored government to prioritise the welfare of Nigerians by avoiding increase in the pump price of petrol and ensuring the implementation of the national minimum wage, which had been delayed by negotiations on the consequential adjustments.He urged Buhari to focus on poverty reduction and improved security.
Olaleye assured the President of the labour centre’s support as he tackles the challenges facing the country, commending him for the increase in internally generated revenue (IGR), steps against the xenophobic attacks on Nigerians in South Africa, and the ratification of the African Continental Free Trade Agreement.
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