In a move to address unemployment and revitalize the state's job market, the Enugu State Ministry of Labour and Employment has initiated a groundbreaking collaboration with key employers of labor in the region. Led by the Commissioner of Labour and Employment, Hon. Pharm Chika Ugwuoke, a delegation embarked on a collaborative partnership with the private sector in a bid to tackle unemployment in the state, commencing with a visit to one of Africa's largest employers of labor, the Nigeria Bottling Company Plc.
The Nigeria Bottling Company, once a thriving hub of employment, had sadly ceased production activities in Enugu in 2018, causing a significant loss of jobs among the local population. Commissioner Ugwuoke expressed his deep regret regarding this situation and made a resolute commitment to work towards the reinstatement of at least some of the production facilities that were relocated out of the state.He assured the depot manager that His Excellency Dr Peter Mbah will do everything possible to bring both old and new businesses back to Enugu.
The commissioner's team also paid a visit to the prominent Seven Up Bottling Company, where they were notably impressed by the company's substantial employment of Enugu citizens. Hon. Ugwuoke disclosed that nearly 40% of the workforce at Seven Up comprises Ndi Enugu, which signifies a recognition of the talent and competency of Enugu's human resources.
He urged the Seven Up Bottling Company to further engage competent Enugu indigenes and prioritize the welfare of employees to align with global standards. In his words, "The best way to tackle unemployment is by creating the enabling environment for businesses to thrive. The Ministry will ensure total collaboration between the state government and these companies to create more jobs in the state."
The Commissioner's team also included the newly activated inspectorate unit of the Ministry of Labour and Employment which has been dormant since 2011,the team is responsible for inspecting workplaces for compliance with labour regulations which include industrial safety, workers' welfare, employment data collection, among others. Hon. Ugwuoke assured the companies that these inspectors and safety officers will be there to support and uphold international labor standards rather than to extort.
The companies, in turn, appealed for government intervention to address the badly deteriorated roads, particularly those leading to Nsukka and the northern regions. Improving road infrastructure would facilitate the movement of their products and contribute to the success of these employment-generating businesses. This strategic partnership marks a promising step towards revitalizing Enugu State's job market and economic growth.
