By Victor Ahiuma-Young

ABUJA—MINISTER of  Labour and Productivity, Chief Emeka Wogu has said the Federal Government is determined to address rising concerns of influx of foreigners to take over jobs meant for Nigerians.

Chief Wogu who spoke at a reception in his honour by the Abuja Chapter of the Abia State University Alumni Association, said the ministry was looking beyond the increase of workers’ salaries to the enhancement of the comfort and dignity of all workers in the country.

According to the Labour Minister: “We are looking at local content when it comes to employment for certain categories of contracts that are given. It is not good enough that we are awarding contracts and that jobs that are meant for Nigerians are being taken by non-Nigerians. The issue of strike has been contained and curtailed and it is our desire that we will enjoy a lot of industrial harmony from now on. Salaries have also been increased by the President of the Federal Republic of Nigeria, Dr. Goodluck Ebele Jonathan to ameliorate the sufferings of the workers.”

Chief Wogu noted with satisfaction the progress report given to the alumni gathering by the Vice-Chancellor of the institution, Prof. Mkpa Agu Mkpa especially lauding the vice-chancellor’s steadfastness in protecting the institution from the ugly incidences of armed banditry and kidnapping in the region.