NUAAE Unites Under New Leadership Amid Internal Strife
The Nigeria Union of Agriculture and Allied Employees (NUAAE) has ushered in a new era of leadership, with Comrade Obafemi Oyenubi now serving as the union’s National President. This leadership transition comes amid reconciliation efforts that aimed to end longstanding internal divisions, restoring unity and strength to the union’s ranks.
The newly formed leadership team includes Comrade Benco Hameed Ademola as Deputy National President I, Comrade Aniedi Abasi Ekpo as Deputy National President II, and Comrade Segun Victor Alemeru as National Treasurer, along with six Regional Vice Presidents representing diverse regions across the nation. Other notable appointments include Comrade Saudat Abubakar as National Women Coordinator and Comrade Moses Baba Umoru as Acting General Secretary.
Addressing the members, Oyenubi pledged his commitment to reinforcing unity within the union and advancing workers’ welfare. “I’m honoured to serve as your newly elected president. Thank you for your trust and support,” he stated. “Our union’s unity and strength are crucial in advancing our interests. I pledge to work tirelessly for better working conditions, fair compensation, and social justice. Let’s work together towards a brighter future.”
Despite the promising change, the union remains embroiled in a controversy with the Federal Ministry of Labour and Employment. A recent letter from the Ministry recognised a faction led by former President Mr. Anchaver, a move the union strongly condemned. NUAAE expressed “shock” at the Ministry’s decision to support what they termed “an illegally formed body,” challenging the neutrality of the Ministry’s Director of Trade Union and Industrial Relations, Mohammed A. Yusuf, whom they accused of “criminal intent and personal gain.”
In a letter addressed to the Honourable Minister, the union demanded the withdrawal of the Ministry’s endorsement of the rival faction, asserting that it undermines efforts by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and veteran leaders to end the union’s divisions. “The credibility of this officer is questionable, backed with criminal intent and a desire for personal gain orchestrated to dent your Ministry’s image,” the letter stated.
The NUAAE leadership, now bolstered by a reconciliatory process that fused the previously conflicting groups, believes that the new team represents a united front, empowered to focus on critical issues such as fair wages and improved working conditions. The union’s recent support for President Bola Tinubu’s signing of the N70,000 minimum wage bill reflects this focus, as they urged all states to implement the policy while ensuring efficient use of public resources.
As NUAAE moves forward under Oyenubi’s leadership, the union remains steadfast in its commitment to champion the rights of agricultural workers nationwide. Despite challenges from within and without, the new administration is determined to uphold unity and advocate for the well-being of Nigeria’s agricultural workforce. NNPCL Halts Fuel Imports, Taps Dangote Refinery for Supply
