COVID-19: Lagos state has earned commendation globally, says NLC

The Nigeria Labour Congress, (NLC) has lauded the efforts of the Lagos state Government, stating that the moves to fight the COVID-19 pandemic has earned her commendation globally.

In a statement signed by the NLC Chairperson, Lagos State, Agnes Funmi Sessi, the governor, Babajide Sanwo-Olu has shown exemplary and enviable leadership in the fight against the virus outbreak currently ravaging nations worldwide.

She added that the decision by Governor Sanwo-Olu to cater for minor medical and maternity expenses of Lagos residents in government hospitals is a welcome development.

“It is on record that the State has earned itself commendation not only in Nigeria but the world at large. The recent decision by the Government to cater for minor medical and maternity expenses of Lagosians in State hospitals during this period is a welcome development and highly appreciated.”

“We appreciate the Honourable Commissioner of Health, Prof Akin Abayomi and his team for the commitment and professional way the issue is being handled.

The untiring efforts of the doctors, nurses and health workers in assisting to combat this pandemic and ensuring the well-being of every citizen are recognised and highly appreciated.

We call on the Government to do all within its power to protect them in the line of duty by providing adequate Personal Protective Equipment (PPE) and motivating them through adequate compensation.”

According to her, ”we have observed that in the distribution of relief materials to the indigent and most vulnerable in the State to cushion the effects of the stay-at-home directive, the target recipients are yet to be reached.

We implore the State Government to make the process more seamless and stress free by deploying already established structures in the State like market groups, organisations, social groups, trade unions and institutions to reach those in extreme need.”

“As workers, we are already feeling the impact of the development as it will most likely have a lot of implications on the revenue generation of the State.

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We appeal that the Government and other employers do all within their capacity to protect the jobs of workers/employees in the State.

We humbly request for tolerance in this trying period on the part of Government, employers and workers as we are optimistic that with the level of commitment by the Government in combating this scourge, this phase will pass.”

“Once again we commend the State for the laudable initiatives in combating this scourge while we appeal that issues raised above are addressed appropriately.”