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PRESS STATEMENT The National Leadership of Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) profoundly felicitates with Mele Kyari on his career elevation and appointment as Group Managing Director of Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) by President Muhammadu Buhari (GCFR). NUPENG as a key stakeholder that plays pivotal role in the country’s Oil and Gas value chain uses this veritable medium to sincerely wish Mr. Kyari success in this new, crucial and challenging responsibility. We equally salute President Muhammadu Buhari (GCFR) for his excellent choice of putting people with good pedigree, discipline, competence and high moral standard to superintend over sensitive positions with the capacity to drive our economy in positive direction. NUPENG believes that the appointment is well deserved, considering Mele Kyari’s proven rectitude, accountability, personal accomplishments and excellent service in NNPC over the years as we can also attest to his solid track records and rich indelible experience, hoping that he would bring professionalism and true leadership to bear in managing this integral part of our country’s economy. We sincerely wish that he will equally harness his experiences from previous offices, with dexterity to curb leakages, ensure peace in the entire industry both administratively and operationally. We congratulate this silent achiever with class and finesse. Meanwhile, NUPENG also wishes the former GMD, Dr Maikanti Baru well, as he finally bowed out from the corporation ceremoniously. We equally thank him most profoundly for engendering hospitable and excellent symbiotic relationship with us as an organization. NUPENG will not forget so quickly when Dr Baru was appointed in 2016, he inherited a corporation in decay and in dire need of a new direction, and the global oil and gas industry isn’t disappointed as he impressively demonstrated uncommon determination to steer new and refreshing course for NNPC. In line with the anti-corruption policy of the Buhari administration, Baru unveiled a well thought out initiatives to reinvigorate the Corporation. To his credit, he created an all-inclusive internal advisory council on security comprising representatives from NNPC, the IOCs, the Unions and security operatives to brainstorm and address host community agitations, implementation of new business models to grant needed autonomy to the strategic business units and autonomous business units within the corporation, provision of directions and control to ensure their growth and profitability, etc. These amazing legacies that are worthy of emulation which he left behind will never be forgotten by all stakeholders. We therefore have no doubt in our minds that he will continue to excel and do Nigeria proud in any future capacity he finds himself. Our solidarity remains constant for the Union makes us strong.   JOINTLY SIGNED BY: COMRADE WILLIAMS AKPOREHA, NATIONAL PRESIDENT OF NUPENG   COMRADE OLAWALE AFOLABI, GENERAL SECRETARY OF NUPENG.

PRESS STATEMENT The National Leadership of Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) heartily rejoice with Mr. Boss Mustapha and Mallam Abba Kyari on their re-appointment as Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF) and Chief-of-Staff to President respectively. For the records, the re-appointment of these two top illustrious officials of the government is an unbiased reward and recognition for their diligence, loyalty and patriotism as well as sincerity of purpose which they both offered during President Muhammadu Buhari's first tenure in office. It is our firm belief that lessons learnt from their first appointment will come handy and helpful for the realization of the administration’s good intention of taking Nigeria to the Next Level of socio-economic advancement as promised during the electioneering period. As a socially responsible Union, it our joy to see a flourishing, safe, and investment friendly socio-economic clime accompanied by sound education, robust human capital development, abundant employment opportunities and capacity building initiatives for the youths, good health care system, increase infrastructure development and other basic needs of Nigerians in the next 4 years so that the people can be more united and be a force to be reckoned with in Africa and the world, thankfully President Buhari has magnanimously set the tone. May God bless and prosper Nigeria. Our solidarity remains constant for the Union makes us strong.  JOINTLY SIGNED BY: COMRADE WILLIAMS AKPOREHA, NUPENG NATIONAL PRESIDENT,   COMRADE OLAWALE AFOLABI, NUPENG GENERAL SECRETARY.

PRESS STATEMENT: The National leadership of Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) profoundly applauds President Muhammadu Buhari (GCFR) for signing Executive Order 5 with the intent to improve Local Content in public procurement as well as in application of Science, Technology and Innovation towards achieving the nation’s development goals across all sectors of the economy. We make bold to salute the courage and patriotism of Mr. President for prohibiting the Ministry of Interior in the Executive Order, from giving visas to foreign workers whose skills are readily available in Nigeria; and that where expertise is lacking, procuring entities will give preference to foreign companies and firms with a demonstrable and verifiable plan for indigenous development, prior to the award of such contracts. It is indeed worthwhile to see this laudable presidential directive recommending that consideration shall only be given to a foreign professional, where it is certified by the appropriate authority that such expertise is not available in Nigeria. With no shred of doubt, this is new dawn for Nigerian workers. Whilst we give kudos to Mr. President for starting his second term on a good footing in tandem with his ‘Next Level’ mantra, he should however not hesitate to ensure all relevant agencies are compelled to implement to the letter the new Executive Order without any form of delay and hindrance so as to foster value creation and addition in the Nigerian human capital development and utilization for material resources and services. We also use this veritable medium to appeal to President Muhammadu Buhari that the application of the Local Content Law should be strongly geared towards the creation of decent permanent jobs for Nigerian workers. The prevalence of casual/ indecent jobs in Nigeria, particularly in the Nigerian Oil and Gas industry is appalling and highly disturbing in view of the high expectations and premium we collectively placed on Nigeria Content Development and Management Board right from the various struggles for its creation. The current increasing youths disenchantment and frustrations evident by the rising tide of cultism, killings, kidnapping, suicide attempt, armed banditry, advance-fee scam, prostitution, and other social vices bedeviling our national life are derivatives of glaring failure of institutions and agencies that are responsible for the creation, protection and sustenance of decent jobs for Nigerian youths. NUPENG as a key stakeholder in the Oil and Gas industry whose members have suffered varying infractions from the hands of different multinational companies as a result of infringement on the local content laws have good reasons to express profound gratitude to a government that obviously demonstrated firm sensitivity and responsiveness to the plight of its citizenry and ready to bring succour, particularly to our members who have experienced neglect from successive administrations under whose watch workers went through harrowing socio-economic and psychological torture with no respite. The rank and file members of our Union will not hesitate to drag out and engage any individual, institutions or agencies that attempt to frustrate this patriotic and well intentioned executive order of  President Mohammadu Buhari. May God bless and prosper Nigeria. Our Solidarity remains constant for the Union makes us strong!!! SIGNED: COMRADE WILLIAMS AKPOREHA, NATIONAL PRESIDENT OF NUPENG.

PRESS STATEMENT The National leadership of Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) is deeply saddened over the shocking and untimely death of Comrade Olabode Johnson, who until his death was the National President of Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN) and Chairman of NUPENGASAN. Distressingly, Friday, May 31, 2019 has inflamed an indelible sore in the minds of Nigerian workers particularly the Oil and Gas industry. NUPENG this day utterly regrets the huge vacuum created by the passing to eternal rest of this great and quintessential Unionist in the labour movement. NUPENGASSAN which he meritoriously chaired kept united, strong and virile has painfully lost a rare gem in its folk. The world vividly recollects every moment, every struggle he championed and flashbacks of sacrifices made by Comrade Olabode Johnson to keep the trade Union in shape. His endearing visions, aimed at holding his members even at the expense of his immediate family can also not be overemphasized. His sincere commitments to see his members and staff successful, move above challenges stay productive and fulfilled in tandem with the Union’s policy thrust are memories that will remain unforgettable. In retrospect, NUPENG could still reflect on your emergence as the Senior Oil and Gas Workers’ President right from your first term regime in June 2014 and subsequent reelection for a second term of three years during your association’s 5th Triennial Delegates Conference on June 29, 2017 at the NAF Conference Centre and Suites, Kado. We love F. O. J but God loves him more!!!!! On this note, NUPENG in this grieving moment extends our heartfelt condolences to the wife and children of our dear late leader, Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) where the deceased worked, Trade Union Congress, PENGASSAN, members of Staff, business associates, friends and well wishers; may God grant them all fortitude to bear this irreparable loss and may his precious soul continue to rest in perfect peace. Adieu our dearest and indefatigable Comrade!   SIGNED: COMRADE WILLIAMS AKPOREHA, NATIONAL PRESIDENT OF NUPENG.   COMRADE AFOLABI OLAWALE  GENERAL SECRETARY NUPENG.

PRESS STATEMENT The National leadership of Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers, (NUPENG) profoundly and unequivocally congratulates the government of Nigeria and the citizenry for a peaceful and successful inauguration for the second term of President Muhammadu Buhari (GCFR) and Vice-President Yemi Osinbajo (GCON) which took place on Wednesday, May 29, 2019. While still in the euphoria of this auspicious and epochal political event, NUPENG uses this veritable medium to appreciate the Nigerian people for sustaining democracy by re-electing the government that means well for them and also reminds political stakeholders in this fresh mandate of the people which is sacred and not negotiable that the Nigerian people who voted them expect the mandate to be judiciously executed so as to deliver the next level promised Nigerians. We further urge the government to look into the collapsed state of country’s security architecture especially the scourge of kidnapping, armed banditry, communal clashes, insurgency, advance-fee scam, cyber fraud, Boko Haram, armed robbery, ritual killings, herder-farmer conflicts, cattle rustling, youth restiveness, among others. Sadly, the high prevalence of insecurity in Nigeria has given rise to drastic cut in supply chain of both cash and food crops from the rural communities, worst still, leading to rural-urban migration, a situation that has snowballed into population explosion and avoidable overstretched-infrastructure in the urban centres as people are looking for safety and protection of their lives; regrettably this is fresh threat that could attract famine to the land. Besides, this menace has drastically reduced investment profile of Nigeria because both local and foreign investors are scared of the hostile and insecure enabling environment which serve as big risk to them and their financial institutions over fear of potential monetary loss, as a result of this, many employable Nigerians are faced with difficult times of acute unemployment and the few that are engaged are not spared as victims of job loss. NUPENG therefore calls on President Muhammadu Buhari, having attained this fresh milestone and mandate to speedily nip the security challenges of the country in the bud; with such proactive intervention we believe it will serve as springboard to open windows of opportunities for socio-economic growth and advancement. In the overall interest of Nigerians we as well appeal to the government to rejig its economic team, and also those saddled with national security and create space for more technocrats. It will also be a plus for the government to do away with people who have outlived their usefulness and others who have lost touch with the grassroots, the task ahead is enormous therefore only highly skilled and qualified hands are expected to be reconsidered in this fresh administration. Once again NUPENG rejoices with Mr. President for being inaugurated for a second term, we have no doubt absolutely that he will consolidate on his previous accomplishments and leave Nigeria a better place than he met it. We however call on all Nigerians across the six geo-political zones to unite and support President Muhammadu Buhari to lead the country in the next four years to the greatness that we all desire and deserve. May God continue to bless, protect and prosper Nigeria. Our Solidarity remains constant for the Union makes us strong!!! SIGNED: COMRADE WILLIAMS AKPOREHA, NATIONAL PRESIDENT OF NUPENG.

The National President of NUPENG and the General Secretary, Comrade Williams Akporeha and Comrade Afolabi Olawale making case for contract workers at the 2019 Annual General Meeting of Royal Dutch Shell which held at the Circustheater, Circusstraat 4, 2586 CW, The Hague, Netherlands on Tuesday May 21, 2019. The astute Union leaders used the occasion to draw stakeholders and investors’ attention to dozens of infractions meted on members of the Union in Nigeria, an aberration which could potentially cost the oil giant (Shell) its reputation. Comrade Afolabi was also seen addressing Shell teeming shareholders as well as the CEO, Ben van Beurden about the activities of the company as it affects the Union in terms of membership, financial capacity and ability to adequately organize and represent Nigerian oil and gas workers which has been adversely affected by repressive anti-labour and Union activities of the multinational oil company (Shell). Comrade Afolabi engaging Shell shareholders at the company's Annual General Meeting NUPENG General Secretary, Comrade Olawale Afolabi and the Union National President, Comrade Williams Akporeha with Shell CEO, Ben van Beurden

PRESS STATEMENT The National leadership of Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers, (NUPENG) vehemently condemns the perceived threat by the Minister of Labour and Employment, Dr Chris Ngige to proscribe our Union despite our strict adherence to statutory mode of operations, laws of the land as well as international conventions since our formal registration as a Trade Union in 15th August, 1978. We are not surprised though, that this recent treacherous move by the Minister was an escalation of his violent reactions and attacks on organized labour’s (not just NUPENG) peaceful rallies and picketing to all places of interest to the Minister, over his failure to inaugurate the Board of the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF) with Comrade (Chief) Ovie Frank Kokori as the Chairman and use of armed thugs to attack Labour leaders. It is shameful that the Minister of Labour had to condescend so low by issuing a directive to NUPENG to produce its only outstanding Financial Returns for 2018 within 72 hours when the extant law stipulates 30 days, and even when such returns are supposed to be due by June 31st, 2019. We have it from good authority that he has further carried all our files right from the inception of our Union (1978) to date in a bid to fish out phantom reasons he intends to use in proscribing the Union. Our fears were however confirmed further when we realized that it was only NUPENG that was instructed to submit its financial returns. We wish to let the whole world know that Dr Chris Ngige is nothing but a big bag of lies and we further put on record that Dr Ngige called to congratulate Chief Kokori personally, when the Acting President, Prof. Yemi Osinbajo announced him in 2017 as the Chairman of the Board of NSITF. The Minister also invited Kokori to dinners four different times to variously discuss about the inauguration and other things concerning the Board particularly how it has been enmeshed with corruption by successive administrations. Besides, the leadership of NUPENG visited the Minister in his office in November 2018 and he informed us that he is still tidying up the agency and that our man (Kokori) will be inaugurated in due course. He even added that Kokori was appointed based on merit as a renowned labour activist and pro-democracy advocate and someone who will not be compromised. Only to later hear in the media that after 2 years of announcing Kokori as the Chairman of the board, his name was substituted with no tenable or justifiable reason(s) and the Minister could not even deem it fit to convene a meeting to brief Comrade Kokori and other relevant stakeholders of the new development thereby allowing it to snowball into crises. Despite this appalling affront on our veteran and the entire labour movement in general and the use of hired thugs by the Minister to attack Labour Leaders and the members, Organized Labour (including NUPENG) for the love they have for Nigeria, only resulted to peaceful protests and strongly resisted provocation of going on strike, knowing the collateral damage this will have on the country and the attendant effect on the socio-economic wellbeing of the citizenry, We decided to lick our wounds and withdraw to our shells especially after the declaration by the Presidency on the changes made. Nevertheless, NUPENG found this absolutely reprehensible and awful to say the least. Worst still, Ngige in his petty and infantile nature has proceeded on self-destructive mission to proscribe NUPENG because the Union dare to speak against what it believes was wrong and injurious to our interest. Ngige's latest machination is purely a personal vendetta, ruthless in execution, sadistic in expectations and not 21st century Industrial Relations practice compliant. It is important to state here that NUPENG or its leadership never had any personal issues with the minister thereby taking a matter which is wholly official to this level, is to us the height of office abuse. NUPENG is however unperturbed by the antics of the Minister, but remains resolute in guiding our policy thrust in tandem with the rules of engagement Meanwhile we are by this press statement putting all our members in every Oil and Gas installations, including Petroleum Tanker Drivers and all other members in the value chain of the industry on HIGH RED ALERT while we watch out for any further infantile and ignoble antics from Ngige. We however use this medium to call on our amiable President and Commander-in-Chief of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Comrade Muhammadu Buhari and all other well-meaning Nigerians to please call the erring minister to order before he plunges this country to a monumental industrial crisis. No one should test the patience or perseverance of the Oil and Gas Workers as our solidarity remains constant for the Union makes us strong! SIGNED: COMRADE WILLIAMS AKPOREHA, NATIONAL PRESIDENT OF NUPENG.

The National leadership of Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers, NUPENG is deeply concerned and worried over the alleged nefarious activities of some devilish and depraved individuals circulating documents calling for coup against the democratically elected government of the Federal Government of Nigeria.

The activities of these depraved desperados are utterly condemned by our Union and we urge all Nigerians irrespective of political/religious or tribal affiliations, to rise up in one accord to berate these faceless individuals and assist the security agencies to smoke them out wherever they are may be hiding. The present democratic system whatever might be its shortcomings was collectively fought for through blood and sweat of patriotic Nigerians and as a Union, we express our faith and confidence that Nigeria democracy has come to stay and could no longer be threatened or usurped by military coup d'etat under any guise, having successfully survived 20 unbroken years of civilian rule. As a socially responsible trade Union, we found it most appropriate at a time like this to add our voice in condemning the heinous antics of all anti-democratic elements within and outside Nigeria, military officers or any other overambitious stakeholders who may be fanning the amber of change in government by way of military interregnum to immediately put a stop to such unpopular, venomous and toxic machination. The removal of a democratic government through the barrel of gun is no longer acceptable or justifiable anywhere in world and Nigerian cannot be an exception in this regard. Moreover, brutality can never solve any problem but only complicates them and sets back the progress of democratic societies. The gory sights and stories from theatres of war across the globe are too frightening to imagine happening in our country. Constitutional democracy offers peaceful options of changing governments through the ballot box. It’s very instructive to note here that we just concluded a successful general elections and anyone that is dissatisfied with the outcomes can either go through constitutional processes to seek redress or wait for another round of elections rather than resorting to any illegal and despicable violent route. NUPENG in strongest term berates any call for support of a revolution to oust the current democratically elected government and in its place establish an illegitimate interim government.  Just like we did during the June 12, 1993 era, we would also not hesitate this time again to mobilize our members and resources across the nation in ensuring that our democracy is protected and not truncated by some desperate individuals that do not wish Nigeria well. As an Oil and Gas Union that is consistently known to be non partisan and highly patriotic, we deeply acknowledge Nigeria’s ability to conduct credible and acceptable election which essentially is one of the bedrock of good democracy. Once a nation could hold free and fair, credible, and transparent election, it is for us to throw our weight behind such democratic process without looking back. NUPENG unequivocally salutes the Defence Headquarters for immediately dissociating the military from the purported document in circulation, calling for the overthrow of President Muhammadu Buhari’s administration. We urge Nigeria military, Department of State Services, Police and other Security and Intelligence Services to intensify their efforts in unmasking the sponsors of the said document in circulation under the guise of Nigerian Continuity and Progress (NCP).

This is the height of an attempted treason against the Nigerian State and our relevant laws and security architecture must be activated to nip this dangerous phenomenon in the bud.

Our Solidarity remains constant for the Union makes us strong.

SIGNED:

COMRADE WILLIAMS AKPOREHA,

NATIONAL PRESIDENT OF NUPENG.

By Emmanuel Ajibulu Despite scorching and visible unfriendly weather condition on Monday (May 13, 2019) in the city of Abuja, the National President and the General Secretary of Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) Comrade Williams Eniredonana Akporeha and Comrade Afolabi Olawale respectively joined other high profile labour leaders and civil rights activists that took part in a nationwide solidarity protest. The well attended protest under the coverage of both local and international media was unavoidably arranged by organized Labour over leadership tussle at the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF) board. The Union and the labour ministry have backed different people for the Chairmanship of the board of NSITF. Labour was of the opinion that the former General Secretary of NUPENG, Comrade (Chief) Frank Ovie Kokori would do justice to the board if inaugurated as the board Chairman, this view point had sharp contrast to that of Labour Ministry. It would be recalled that on Sunday (May 12, 2019), the Presidency said the decisions of the minister of labour and Employment, Dr Chris Ngige, on the matter had the approval of President Muhammadu Buhari. It said the board will be inaugurated as planned. It also redeployed the labour campaigner, Chief Frank Kokori, to the Labour Institute in Kwara State. Chief Kokori was earlier appointed by the president to head the Board at NSITF, but the Minister opposed his nomination while various labour organs threw their weights behind Kokori. Sadly on Wednesday, May 8, 2019, journalists and labour members were attacked by thugs suspected to have been sent by Dr Ngige, during a protest at the minister’s residence in Asokoro, Abuja. This ugly development necessitated the nationwide protest that began at about 9 am on Monday; it kicked off from the Labour House after a brief address by the NLC National President Comrade Ayuba Wabba. It had members of affiliated unions in attendance. The union was protesting minister’s unwillingness to inaugurate the Nigeria Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF) board with NUPENG's veteran, Chief Kokori as the chairman. Speaking at the protest, the national president of NLC, Ayuba Wabba, said the unions under common goal are protesting the attack on Nigerian workers during a protest to minister's house. “Members of International Labour Congress in Geneva will be protesting against Ngige on June 18,” he said. According to him, Nigerian workers have the rights to protest and picket. Meanwhile, whilst the protest was going on, the minister, Dr Chris Ngige simultaneously inaugurated the new National Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF) board at the State House banquet hall in the presidential villa after a two-year delay in total defiance to labour agitations. The Minister said the two-year delay in the inauguration was as a result of massive looting in the organisation between 2012 and 2015. He added that between that period in view, the sum of N62.5 billion was contributed out of which N48 billion was unaccounted for and N25 billion was withdrawn without vouchers. The new board is to be chaired by Austin Enejomo-Isire. The past board members are currently being investigated by the Economic and Financial Crimes Commission (EFCC). Ngige, however, charged the new board to resist the temptation of fixing special allowances for themselves urging them to execute their duties fairly and transparently.

FULL TEXT OF THE PRESS CONFERENCE ADDRESSED BY THE NATIONAL PRESIDENT OF NUPENG, COMRADE (PRINCE) WILLIAMS AKPOREHA TO STATE THE POSITION OF NUPENG ON THE FACEOFF BETWEEN LABOUR MINISTER AND COMRADE OVIE FRANK KOKORI OVER NSITF BOARD CHAIRMANSHIP, IN JIBOWU ON FRIDAY, MAY 10, 2019. Good afternoon gentlemen and ladies of the Press, we sincerely appreciate you most profoundly for responding swiftly to our impromptu invitation to this press conference inspite of your tight schedule in your respective beats. My brothers and sisters from the media, we called you here today to draw the attention of the whole world to the lies and despicable antics Minister of Labour and Employment in desperate attempt to appropriate to himself perpetually the National Social Insurance Trust Fund. Having listened to his explanation and defense on the recent peaceful protest of the workers (But turned bloody at the instance of Mr. Chris Ngige), against his attempt to secretly inaugurate the board of National Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF) in his sitting room after organized labour had frustrated previous attempts, we thought it wise to not only unmasked Mr. Chris Ngige for what he is and has ever been but to also once again place the records of Chief Frank Ovie Kokori on the world screen to see and compare with the unknown and murky records of his traducer. Chief Chris Ngige from all indications has not represented the President Muhammadu Buhari, the Federal Government and the APC well in this whole saga. It is really disheartening and worrying that a Federal Minister of the Federal Republic of Nigeria would openly lie to the whole world in full glare of cameras and microphones that Nigerian workers brought fully loaded petroleum trucks to his house. This allegation was unfounded and belittling of an honourale federal Minister, former Governor and former distinguished Senator, if he is ever honourable and distinguished. We are seriously surprised that a Minister will give an ‘alternative fact’ to the already known truth that is in public domain; he claimed that Tankers with loads of petroleum products barricaded his Asokoro residence; this is a show of shame to his status as a high-profile public servant so to say. We want the Nigerian public to help us ask Mr. Minister why he would want to inaugurate a Board in his private residence or at a hotel? This is an admittance to the fact that is has lost touch with decency and decorum, shamefully so. It is on record that defenseless workers were shot at, while some of them who sustained serious injuries were taken to the National Hospital in Abuja for treatment. It is a global practice that workers strive for their rights and interests through picketing, which is a form of protest in which they congregate to draw public attention to a cause that directly affects them and their members or any government policies or actions that are found injurious to their interest or welfare. I make bold to say that the Abuja protesters were non-violent, but only sought after the primary aim of putting pressure on the Minister within their rules of engagement to inaugurate Chief Kokori as the NSITF Chairman. Gentlemen and ladies of the press, there are visual and audio-visual evidences to substantiate my claim on this subject matter and I am sure as Labour Correspondents you all are abreast of this ugly development which is in public space. It is really appalling at this state of our national life to see topmost echelon of the NLC, Comrade Ayuba Wabba, NUPENG, Comrade Williams Akporeha (my good self) and others, being openly assaulted by thugs and hooligans is to say the least most irresponsible and a mockery of our democracy especially the aspect of our law which accommodates freedom to assemble freely and associate with other persons, as well as freedom of association and expression. This is worst and most disrespectful. From all indications, Dr. Chris Ngige is no match with Chief Kokori by any standard. Without fear of contraction, showing solidarity to Chief Kokori this time around cannot be said to be out of place under any guise. He is such a man with intimidating and enviable credentials, known for engendering justice, never compromising oil workers’ rights and of stainless integrity, purpose and vision throughout his reign as the General Secretary of NUPENG for 17 meritorious years of indelible records and the entire labour movement benefitted immensely from his efforts. Without the painstaking sacrifices of the Labour movement led by Chief Kokori and others, there would have been no democracy under which an Ngige became a State Governor, a Senator of the Federal Republic and the Minister of Labour and Employment where he is currently playing god. Chief Frank Kokori should be remembered and celebrated at a time like this because of his role in the struggle for democracy which made the International Labour Organisation (ILO), Amnesty International (AI) and labour federations across the globe declare him prisoner of conscience between August 1994 and June 1998. Kokori was in solitary confinement for four consecutive years in the infamous Bama Prison. He was just dumped there with no charges preferred against him by the evil regime of the Military. Kokori has a lot to offer Nigeria and he should be given all the support to serve this country. Gentlemen and ladies of the press, today NUPENG is putting the record straight by saying in the interest of industrial peace and harmony the Minister of Labour and Employment should: 1.    Apologize openly to the organized Labour and visit our members who are currently in the hospital and we also appeal to all our members for calm with the belief that this matter would be amicably resolved within the shortest possible time. 2.   Inaugurate the board of NSITF and make our veteran, Comrade (Chief) Frank Ovie Kokori as the Chairman with no further delay and also ensure that the process is not shrouded in secrecy but must be transparent. 3.   We appeal to President Muhammadu Buhari (GCFR) to intervene on this matter to ensure sustenance of peace between organized Labour and the Ministry of Labour and Employment. We can never be ungrateful to him neither can we forget so soon his effort on the implementation of the N30,000 new minimum wage despite barrage of encumbrances it witnessed. 4.   We also ask all well-meaning Nigerians, to speak up on this matter as evil thrives when good people keep silent. What is the special thing or deal that Chief Chris Ngige is hiding from the public, that Chief Frank Kokori would expose if he is inaugurated as Chairman of NSITF board? Gentlemen and ladies of the press, thank you for your patience and attention. Question and Answer!

TEXT OF THE PRESS CONFERENCE ADDRESSED BY THE NATIONAL PRESIDENT OF NUPENG, COMRADE (PRINCE) WILLIAMS AKPOREHA, IN JIBOWU ON FRIDAY, 26 APRIL 2019. Good afternoon gentlemen and ladies of the fourth estate of the realm, we thank you for honouring our invitation to this press conference despite the short notice.

1. IMF POISONOUS ADVICE

As our esteemed collaborators you are already aware of our firm position on the unsolicited advice by the International Monitoring Fund (IMF) to Nigerian government which was jointly signed in a statement on Sunday April 14, 2019 by NUPENG and our sister Union, PENGASSAN. We make bold to say we stand by our statement and further urge Federal government to heed our legitimate advice by shunning any counsel that would destabilize or cause any crisis and unnecessary tension in the economy and body politic. Again we salute you the press, our dependable partners for timely publication of our views on this matter and for giving us voice on your respective platforms. While maintaining our uncompromising standpoint on national patriotism and also pushing for good governance particularly in the sector that affects our members and their businesses we use this medium to condemn the hoax which suggested that Federal government was planning to remove fuel subsidy. Our over dependence on Petroleum Products importation has unfortunately made us to be very vulnerable to antics and manipulations of local and foreign manipulators. As a stakeholder in the oil and gas industry in Nigeria, we are not aware of such plan. Sadly this unhealthy speculation led to panic buying and created slight hitches in the country's downstream sector. Thankfully, the Nigerian National Petroleum Corporation (NNPC) under the capable management of Eng. Maikanti Baru proactively sustained availability of products and succeeded in stemming the tide despite the narrative of the fifth columnists. We affirm once again that we will resist any policy that will impact negatively on the Oil and Gas Industry, the general public and the nation in general. Consequently, NEC-In-Session, (National Executive Council of NUPENG) the highest organ of our Union on Friday April 26, 2019 requested for urgent revitalization of Nigeria’s ailing refineries to pave way for sufficient local supply of petroleum products across the nation. NEC-In-Session also pleaded with President Muhammadu Buhari to use the strength of his second term in office to end Nigeria’s reliance on imported petroleum products so as to meet local consumption. As a Union, we will give the president all necessary supports required from us to put an end to this shame of depending on imported products for local consumption. NEC-In-Session in its wisdom equally encouraged state governments from the oil rich Niger-Delta region to invest in building of oil refineries to cater for domestic, commercial and industrial use by the citizenry. 2. ANTI LABOUR POSTURES OF IOCs AND VIOLATIONS OF WORKERS’ RIGHTS   i. SHELL LAND LOGISTICS CONTRACTORS VIOLATION OF CBA. As you are all aware, our mandate and mission from the inception of this regime is to project new positive image and engender industrial peace and harmony in the industry and the Country as a whole, but we are quick to state here that no one should take our new posture for weakness or abdication of our responsibilities and core mandate to our members and the union. It is so sad and disheartening to put across to the public the flagrant violation of the rights of Contract Workers’ rights in SHELL Nigeria. The gross violation of Workers right reached an unfortunate head when SHELL Contractors brazenly refused to implement an agreement they willingly entered into with the Workers since November 2018. It will interest you to know that, the Conditions under which these Contract Workers are working were conditions set in a CBA that expired since 2016. We have resolved to take up this fight and we are putting the public on notice with this Press address. SHELL Petroleum Development Company cannot feign ignorance of the inhuman conditions Nigerians are being subjected to. These Multinational Companies are appearing so big to respect agreement and statutory provisions and institutions in the Country. We urge all patriotic Nigerians to rise up and support our struggles to earn respect for our Constitution and Institutions. ii. NIGERIA LIQUIFIED NATURAL GAS COMPANY & ITS CONTRACTORS REFUSAL TO RECOGNIZE THE UNION It is really appalling to note that issue of freedom of association for Workers in Nigeria is an issue that some management in the Industry are resisting unnecessarily. In any decent and responsible Organization, the rights of workers to join the union and collectively negotiate their working conditions ought not to be a difficult one; unfortunately, it isn’t the case with the NLNG and its Contractors, where the matter has become an issue of litigation for the NLNG contract employees. It is important to let you know that even after the Ministry of Labour intervention and the Court ruling in favour of the workers affirming their inalienable rights to associate and bargain collectively,  NLNG and its Contractors still remain recalcitrant. Some of these Contractors include; WAEP, MIDIS NIG LTD, RYPAC, D. A ENTERPRISE etc, Regrettably, NLNG is still going further to circumvent the law by resorting to short term contracts of 3 to 6 months for a permanent job which has given room for high turnover of workers. Furthermore, the Union engaged the management of Morgreen Nig Ltd, a local content company in NLNG in collective bargaining negotiation processes and after a far reaching agreement the management flippantly refused to sign the CBA documents based on the directive of their principal (NLNG). This has left the contract employees in NLNG working without any negotiated condition of service in place and with no prospect for career path. Rather than NLNG to advise their contractors to recognize the union and engage the union on Collective Bargaining, what we see today is that any contractor whose employees opt to join the union will have their contract terminated. The precarious contract and the anti-union posture of NLNG management has frustrated the effort to Unionize and negotiate a collective Bargaining Agreement for the contract Employees in NLNG, every day Employees lose their jobs as a result of joining the Union. It is our resolve to draw the attention of the general public to this inhuman and retrogressive treatment faced by Nigerians which is occasioned by the weak enforcement process of our laws.  Therefore the union is determined to fight these menaces and speedily restore the hope of the common man. 3      MINIMUM WAGE We wish to commend President Muhammadu Buhari and the National Assembly for the passage and signing into Law the new national minimum wage. We further wish to implore all employers of Labour (Public and Private) in the Country to ensure immediate implementation of the new minimum wage. We offer our hands of fellowship to all workers who might need support in the unforeseen situation of any employer including State governments that may be thinking of cutting corners with regards to the implementation of the new minimum wage. We know as a matter of fact that there is no state in Nigeria that does not have the capacity to conveniently implement this modest benchmark for workers in their respective states. It is therefore imperative for the Government to focus on how to deepen good governance and restrain from fiscal wastages. 4      COMRADE (CHIEF) FRANK OVIE KOKORI NSITF’S BOARD CHAIRMANSHIP SAGA  With no shred of doubt, the controversy surrounding the appointment of Chief Kokori as the chairman of NSITF Board and the refusal of the Honourable Minister of Labour and Employment, Dr Chris Ngige to inaugurate him as the Board Chairman is unnecessary, really disturbing and of grave concerns to the entire Labour Movement in general. We are worried and concerned with the motives and intentions of the Honourable Minister on this matter. It is on record that for over a year after his appointment by President Muhammadu Buhari, the Honourable Minister flagrantly refused to follow through with his inauguration even in spite of all entreaties from all quarters including Comrade Adams Oshiomhole. We are all aware of the historical and invaluable contributions of our veteran, Comrade (Chief) Ovie Frank Kokori to labour movement, political emancipation of this great country and nation building. Comrade Kokori's appointment as Chairman of Nigerian Social Insurance Trust Fund (NSITF) by President Muhammadu Buhari is well deserved and we will not allow any individual to rubbish his contributions and place in history. Although the inauguration has been postponed till later date, it is our belief that our veteran will be accorded this due honour as given to him by the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria. Let it be on record that we are reaffirming our stand by resisting any attempt by the minister to secretly inaugurate the board; we will mobilize Nigerian workers to resist any attempt to secretly inaugurate the board if the minister fails to openly inaugurate the board as approved by Mr. President. 5      MAY DAY 2019 As labour correspondents, you are not unaware that Wednesday, May 1, 2019 marks the celebration of another Workers' Day it is the Union's desire to heartily rejoice with Nigeria’s oil and gas workers and other critical stakeholders in the industry as well as workers in general on this felicitous day that is globally and traditionally set aside to celebrate workers and their uniqueness. It is a day with deep historical tradition that is noble and progressive in industrial relations which characterizes the struggles of workers around the world way back in May 1, 1904. This is a day where efforts of all the heroes past, who had fought for the workers of all nations to have a voice in determining the course and direction of both national and international issues affecting the state of their being, are commemorated. NUPENG profoundly commends the perseverance, dedication, industrial cohesion, solidarity, leadership role and sacrifices of the Nigerian oil and gas workers and workers at large in accentuating growth and development for our nation. This year’s Workers Day will also witness the unity of all Labour Centre in celebration. The celebration will be jointly carried out at the national level and in all States of the federation. This to us is a worthy development and we implore all our members to celebrate the worthy struggles of the past and present Comrades. We shall overcome.

6. INSECURITY IN NIGERIA 

In conclusion gentlemen and ladies of the press, Nigeria has been facing serious security challenges in the last few years, as a Union this poses a lot of concerns to us. The uncertainty and threat on general public/Investors safety and businesses is of grave concern to all and sundry. We wonder how explosives, bombs and high damage assault rifles gained access into our country and subsequently end up in the hands of terrorist, cultists, kidnappers, armed robbers, assassins, ritualists and other criminal elements in our society. Boko Haram alone has killed tens of thousands and have displaced over 2.3million Nigerians from their homes. Consequently, a key issue which President Muhammadu Buhari must seriously look into is the issue of saboteurs within the brass of Military, Police, DSS, Immigration, NSCDC, Customs, etc. NUPENG therefore appeals to the President to ensure that insecurity is brought to barest minimum so that life will be more abundant and the enabling environment will be more lucrative for both local and foreign investors and compete favourably with other advanced economies of the world. Thank you for your attention. God bless you all.

7. QUESTION AND ANSWER
8. End/Solidarity Song!

 

The executive members of Police Community Relations Committee (PCRC) on Wednesday April 24, 2019 paid courtesy visit to the leadership of Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) at its Jibowu national secretariat in Lagos. The PCRC delegation led by then Chairman, Mr Funsho Ige, was received by the General Secretary (GS) of NUPENG, Comrade Olawale Afolabi on behalf of the President of the Union, Comrade (Prince) Williams Akporeha who was unavoidably absent. Others in the PCRC delegation were Ms Bolanle Egomson (Secretary), Mr. Aregbesola Ishola (now Chairman of PCRC), Mr Yomi Fakoya, Ms Ayo Ruth, and Mr. Christopher Onwochei. Addressing the delegation, the General Secretary of NUPENG stated that; “The Union strongly appreciated this courtesy visit and also for identifying with the new leadership of our Union, we say thank you. Let me also tell you that it is the desire of our National President to be part of this high profile gathering today, but he is outside Lagos attending to other pressing issues in the interest of our members.” Fielding questions from the visitors, Comrade Afolabi commended the PCRC officials for their selfless efforts despite high risks associated with their roles in reporting potential crimes, flash points of crime, criminal elements and their hideouts to the Police. He however advised them to admonish the Police officers who they often interface with to be more professional in their conducts and step up their game in intelligence gathering, processing and management as well as fulfilling the obligation of confidentiality and the duty not to break trust so that high prevalence of crime which are mostly robbery, rape, internet fraud, and rival cult clashes are nipped in the bud at Onipanu, Fadeyi, Jibowu and other adjoining neighborhoods. The GS also maintained that the Union will not renege in giving support to PCRC but cautioned that such support will only be within the limit of the Union’s budget meant to take care of corporate social responsibility initiatives such as this. PCRC former Chair, Mr. Ige on his part applauded the timely intervention of the Police in Onipanu based on the professional manner the officers have been acting on intelligence reports that are presented before them. According to him, “Parts of the breakthrough recorded by the Police is the activities of “one-chance” bus operators which have been completely eradicated on the road, we also have 24 hours Police stationary vehicle at Onipanu bus stop, this particular intervention has helped a lot to reduce crime and in curbing crime escalation on that corridor. As you know that Onipanu falls under the jurisdiction of Area H Command with 11 divisions, we make bold to say they are doing their best in showing commitment in combating lawlessness within the neighborhoods of their coverage. Please bear in mind that the Vice Chairmanship position of PCRC is zoned to NUPENG and we would always appreciate your unflinching support towards our course. We know you are very close to the government at the top, please at any opportunity open to you please help us to convince them to do more for the Police so that we can work towards achieving a crime-free society.” While bringing the meeting to a close, Deputy General Secretary (DGS) of the Union in charge of Operations, Comrade Otite Onohwohwo gave a cheering vote of thanks. “We sincerely appreciated your visit to our corporate national office. We found your ideas and suggestions shared here valuable and we are encouraged by this gesture and anticipate the long symbiotic relationship we’ve nurtured over the years will continue to yield positive results. On behalf of the Union I say thank you for the time you spent speaking with us. Your visit was a compliment to everyone in our office”. Other members of the Union’s leadership in attendance were the Deputy General Secretaries in charge of Administration and Finance/Accounts, Comrades Christopher Akpede and Comrade Anthony Chukwu, so also Principal Assistant General Secretary (PAGS) in charge of Public Affairs and Research, Comrade Adamson Momoh.  

The National Executive Council (NEC) of Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) join all our members, staff and the entire Christian community during the celebrations of Easter in commemoration of the resurrection of Jesus Christ. These celebrations are worthy finale to the sacred period of fasting, prayer and self-denial which Christians had gone through in the past 40 consecutive days of Lent. It is the belief of NUPENG that such fundamental values would go a long way in promoting and strengthening the foundation of love, peace and harmony in our country, and that the season would serve as a reminder to all of the selflessness, love, sacrifice and tolerance of Jesus Christ throughout His earthly sojourn, his death and his subsequent resurrection. We therefore admonish all Nigerians to learn from the pain, joy, love and caring which define the Easter celebrations, and allow these laudable virtues to continually guide us as a people in our individual, industrial and community relationships. We also urge those in positions of authority to strive to encourage the citizens to make virile and purposeful sacrifice and show love especially when the country is facing challenges by making their own lives, in public and private, something transparent, and worthy of emulation for the overall good of our country. Whilst still in the euphoria of Easter, NUPENG prays for peace and prosperity for all Nigerians and crave them to enjoy a stress-free and violence-free celebration. We wish you all very happy Easter celebrations. Our Solidarity remains constant for the Union makes us strong. SIGNED: COMRADE WILLIAMS AKPOREHA, NATIONAL PRESIDENT OF NUPENG.

NIGERIA Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers, NUPENG, has pleaded with President Muhammadu Buhari, to use his second term in office to end Nigeria’s reliance on imported petroleum products to meet local consumption. President of the Union, Prince Williams Akporeha, who spoke in Lagos yesterday, said Nigerians would forever remember President Buhari if he could ensure that the issue of imported petroleum products became a thing of the past before the end of his tenure. According to Prince Akporeha:“It is a shame and a serious embarrassment that Nigeria, the 6th leading crude oil producing countries in the world depends on imported products to meet local demands. How long can we continue to live with the issue of subsidy removal and fuel scarcity? How long can we continue to depend on the vagaries of international crude price to determine the prices of the products we consume locally? “How long will Nigerians continue with this incessant fuel scarcity and fear of fuel scarcity? The report that Nigeria has spent over N6trillion on subsidy for the Premium Motor Spirit (PMS) also known as petrol in the last few years is a serious concern to us as Nigerians and as NUPENG particularly. Nigerians deserve to enjoy the benefits of being an oil producing country. “As a Union, NUPENG wants to stress that it will be economically suicidal to completely remove subsidy on PMS without putting in place robust palliatives for the citizenry to cushion the effects on the masses. However, NUPENG pleads with President Buhari as a patriot whose love for Nigeria and Nigerians remain undiluted and unquestionable, to use his second term in office to permanently end Nigeria’s reliance on imported petroleum products to meet local demands. We are urging Mr President to do all within his powers to ensure that the four public refineries are fully rehabilitated to perform at full capacity, as well as ensure that more refineries come on stream to refine products for not only local consumption, but for export as well. “If the President can do this, Nigerians will forever remember him and be grateful to him. As a Union, we will give the president all necessary supports required from us to put an end to this shame of depending on imported products for local consumption.” Meanwhile, ahead of the Easter holidays, NUPENG President told members to double their efforts in fuel distribution saying “we want to use this medium to once again, appeal to NUPENG members involved in petroleum distribution chain to intensify efforts at ensuring unhindered free flow of supplies to filling stations nationwide before, during and after the Easter celebrations.” https://www.google.com/amp/s/www.vanguardngr.com/2019/04/end-nigerias-reliance-on-imported-petroleum-products-nupeng-tells-buhari/amp/

The newly appointed General Secretary of Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG), Comrade Olawale Afolabi and other appointed Deputy General Secretaries, Comrades Christopher Akpede, Anthony Chukwu and Otite Onohwohwo on Tuesday April 9, 2019 hosted National Secretariat staff at Jibowu office of the Union to a lunch. The merry making gathering which commemorated the new leadership structure within Union had in attendance the National President of NUPENG, Comrade Williams Eniredonana Akporeha, National Treasurer, Comrade Alex Agwanwor,  Comrade Adamson Momoh (PAGS Research/Public Affairs), Comrade Alabala Lawrence (POS Training/Education), old staff, the newly confirmed staff and a few well wishers. Comrade Akporeha in his remarks reaffirmed his thought that the new General Secretary and the Deputy General Secretaries with their robust antecedents for more than two decades will no doubt continue to add value to the growth of the Union. He however encouraged the staff who were just confirmed to redouble their dedication, loyalty, and hardwork to help the Union succeed, and that they must be willing to grow and set aside their own priorities for the sake of the Union’s long-term advancement. He further stressed that the trust and high optimism showcased by the new staff in the last one year towards meeting NUPENG goals should not be relaxed, rather they must insist to initiate actions that will make them become highly productive to accomplish tasks beyond their job description for the overall good of the Union, adding that there is reward for hardwork and compliance to the ethics and core values of the Union.

PRESS STATEMENT The National Administrative Council (NAC) of Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG) has officially announced the confirmation of Comrade Olawale Afolabi as the substantive General Secretary of the Union with immediate effect, having acted in that capacity for three consecutive months. Comrade Afolabi is a seasoned trade Unionist and technocrat who has been in active service for over two decades in NUPENG, precisely in the areas of Management, Training/Education, Alternative Dispute Resolution, and Negotiations. He is known to be very replete with the creation, development and launch of existing viable operations with robust, deep and ingenious ideas. His skills in Industrial Relations, General Management and Organizational Development were acquired and nurtured over the years in various roles since he pitched his tent with NUPENG, where he spent bulk of his meritorious career. Before this latest milestone in the Union, Comrade Afolabi was previously known to be diligent in handling the Education and Training of the rank and file of the Union and he was a founding member of Nigerian Labour Movement Educators Forum. Also to his credit, many Union leaders and branch officials cut their trade union teeth through his numerous relevant trainings and workshops. Similarly, NAC also promoted Comrade Christopher Akpede to the position of Deputy General Secretary in charge of Administration; he was until now, Principal Assistant General Secretary and Head of Port Harcourt zone of the Union. Others who were promoted to the position of Deputy General Secretaries are Comrades Anthony Chukwu (in charge of Finance/Accounts) and Otite Precious Onohwohwo (in charge of Operations). These three astute leading lights in our Union will formally resume to their respective offices effective Monday April 1, 2019. There is no doubt absolutely that these men will bring their wealth of experiences and knowledge to bear in these new tasks. SIGNED: COMRADE PRINCE WILLIAMS AKPOREHA NUPENG NATIONAL PRESIDENT.

By Emmanuel Ajibulu As the world marks 2019 edition of International Women’s Day, women in trade Unions in Nigeria, under the aegis of IndustriALL Global Union in unison came out in their large numbers on Thursday March 7, 2019 to drive home the theme of their anniversary (Gender) ”Balance For Better”. The enthusiastic female unionists all clad in branded IndustriALL white, black and red T-Shirts, led by globally recognized rights activist, Josephine Obiajulu Odumakin (otherwise addressed as Joe Odumakin), the Chairperson, IndustriALL National Women Committee, Comrade Oluchi Amaogu and National Chairperson, NUPENG Women Committee, Comrade Thelma Ndukwe marched and danced round the neighborhoods of Jibowu and Yaba axis of Lagos, amidst drums and trumpets. Addressing the gathering in her welcome message at the NUPENG Lagos zonal office in Fadeyi right after the advocacy parade on the streets, Comrade Oluchi said: “Today IndustriALL global union uses International Women’s Day to demand sensitivity and accountability on the part of all stakeholders across board to obliterate the plight of women and girl child and ensuring that there is room for ‘balance for better’. I’m always passionate about the woman and her overall well-being and of course IndustriALL is always interested in growth in family life, career, health and other areas and therefore will continue to provide platforms and support programmes that will help women and their various concerns. This value-packed initiative will help women learn essential lessons which can be applied to their daily lives and career and also help us become all we want to be and be the best at it. I am also happy that we have some secondary school students with us today who are obviously open to an opportunity to learn from us and apply the learning to their daily engagements in order to better their future and positively influence their peers” Comrade Issa Aremu, Vice President, IndustriALL Global Union on his part said, “IndustriALL Global Union of which I’m a Vice President representing our dear continent demands that all workers should enjoy equal rights. Sadly all female and young workers still remain subject to discrimination. They are being denied their fundamental rights. IndustriALL fights their discrimination at work and union by promoting their fairer and stronger participation in trade unions.” The seasoned trade unionist who was unavoidably absent at the event due to his guber campaigns ahead of Saturday March 9 polls in Kwara State, was represented by Comrade Ruth Balogun, who on his behalf read the Union leader’s lucid and very insightful speech. “Violence against women in the workplace was a key topic when the IndustriALL Women Committee met in Colombo, Sri Lanka on 7 November last year. The Committee reinforced its support for a campaign to fight against violence and harassment against women in the workplace. IndustriALL Executive Committee calls on affiliates to take the pledge to combat violence against women and take active steps to implement its commitments.” Whilst emphasizing on the need for the women to take full responsibility, he charged them to “Take the pledge!” Highlighting the pledge in specific terms, Aremu in his read speech said, “To take a public stand against all forms of violence and harassment against women and to condemn all attitudes and actions that perpetuate sexism and violence; “To take up the issue as a priority in our union and to allocate the necessary resources for activities aimed at preventing and combating this violation of women’s rights; “To foster a culture of respect for women within our union by raising the awareness of our members, staff and officials and providing education on the importance of eradicating violence and harassment in the workplace and in our union; “To encourage our members to actively take a stand against violence and harassment against women, especially in their own workplaces.” He added, “To organize campaigns aimed at preventing and combating violence against women; “To demand that governments enact and enforce laws to protect women from violence; “To demand that employers develop policies against all forms of violence and harassment at work, and promote awareness among their employees on the devastating impacts of violence against women and the importance of eradicating it; “To demand that employers develop concrete policies and procedures to prevent and combat all forms of violence against women in their premises and supply chains, and establish safe mechanisms for women to turn to if they are assaulted or attacked at work; to include demands for the eradication of violence and harassment against women in our collective bargaining claims.” Aremu stressed. Meanwhile, Dr Joe Odumakin President, “Women Arise for Change Initiative” during her presentation which was hinged on the anniversary theme, said women abilities make them equal humans to their male counterparts. She advised women to ensure that they broke the culture of silence, which according to her, imposes a lot of reactionary culture of suppression on them. She also urged women to make education their priorities, saying that an educated mind, anywhere, “is a liberated mind”. The female rights activist also decried low turnout of women participation in politics, “Women supporting women is good for the society” she noted that, with the population of Nigerian women averaged 50 percent of its total populace, it would also be nice if there are more women manning the political and appointive public service positions of the country. She quoted the National Gender Policy (NGP) saying that, “In Nigeria, the extant NGP recommended 35 percent affirmative action instead and sought for a more inclusive representation of women with at least 35 percent of both elective political and appointive public service positions respectively, it will not be a bad idea if we surpass the percentage.” According to her, “In 2007, there are eight female Senators out of 109 available seats, while in the House of Representative, out of 360 available seats, we have 23 which are women. The number of female Senators in the nation dropped to seven in 2011 while that of the Green chamber increased by just three. Currently, we have only eight female Senators, while in the HOR, the number declined further to 19.” She regretted that majority of Nigerians erroneously bear negative mindsets about the concept of gender equality. “They think women are demanding equality with men, but that is not true; what we are asking for is equal opportunities. She said in addition to the premise of the day was to raise awareness of the fact that women around the world are subject to rape, domestic violence and other forms of violence. “Furthermore, one of the aims of the day is to highlight that the scale and true nature of the issue is often hidden. One major way of eliminating violence against women is the implementation of various guidelines and legislations that have been created toward tackling the menace of violence against women. “We also need to increase the capacity of our law enforcement agencies, educate the citizens more than we are currently doing, and ultimately, our society must criminalise all forms of actions of violence against women,” she said. She advised all the arms of governments to ensure that women, being the highest population in the country were made to leave freely and without fear. She admonished women to discover the strength that existed not only in their numbers. For the women in trade Unions in Nigeria, they urged women to remain resilient in their demand for equal opportunities, describing this year’s theme, “Balance For Better”, as a nod to the growing global movement of advocacy, activism and support surrounding gender parity. Among the group were the Nigeria Union of Petroleum and Natural Gas Workers (NUPENG), Petroleum and Natural Gas Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (PENGASSAN), National Union of Chemical, Footwear and Non-Metallic Workers (NUCFRLANMPE), National Union Of Electricity Employees (NUEE), Steel And Engineering Workers Union Of Nigeria (SEWUN), Chemical and Non Metallic Products Senior Staff Association of Nigeria (CANMPSSAN) etc. It would be recalled that International Women’s Day is celebrated on March 8 every year to commemorate the movement for women’s rights. The first observance of the Day was held on Feb.28, 1909 in New York, while March 8 was suggested by the 1910 International Woman’s Conference for the event to become an “International Woman’s Day.