The Federal Government has opened discussions with labour unions over concerns surrounding the proposed concession arrangement for King’s College, Lagos, as efforts continue to resolve disagreements involving workers and stakeholders.
The meeting, led by the Minister of Education, Dr Tunji Alausa, focused on addressing issues raised by staff unions and finding a workable solution acceptable to all parties.
Labour Leaders Join Government Dialogue
The engagement was attended by representatives of the Trade Union Congress (TUC), the Association of Senior Civil Servants of Nigeria (ASCSN) and other affiliated unions.
Also present were the Minister of State for Education, Prof. Suwaiba Ahmad, and the Acting Permanent Secretary of the ministry, Dr Folake Olatunji-David.
The meeting followed growing opposition from workers and stakeholders over the Federal Government’s plan involving the historic Lagos institution.
FG Says Reform Aims to Improve Education
Alausa said the discussion was part of wider education reforms under President Bola Ahmed Tinubu’s Renewed Hope Agenda.
He explained that the government’s objective was to strengthen Nigeria’s education system and ensure children had access to better learning opportunities.
The minister acknowledged concerns about workers’ welfare but urged stakeholders to consider the broader interest of students and the future of public education.
He praised the unions for choosing dialogue rather than confrontation.
Government Assures Workers of Protection
The Acting Permanent Secretary, Olatunji-David, assured workers that the concession arrangement would not strip them of their status as civil servants.
She explained that employees affected by the arrangement would have options, including remaining at King’s College under the new structure or transferring to other government schools within Lagos State.
According to her, decisions would be based on individual preferences.
She added that a transition committee would be created to coordinate the process, protect workers’ interests and ensure the historical identity of King’s College remains preserved.
Unions Seek Clarification on Concession Plan
The TUC General Secretary, Mr Nuhu Toro, said labour leaders wanted more explanation about the proposed arrangement, especially the meaning and implications of the term “concession”.
He said uncertainty surrounding the plan had caused concern among workers in Unity Colleges and King’s College.
The disagreement had earlier led unions to direct some workers to suspend activities while seeking clarification from the government.
Toro, however, welcomed the government’s decision to engage with labour leaders.
He said both sides shared a common interest in protecting the future of Nigerian children, particularly those from disadvantaged backgrounds.
“We are on the same page on the future of our children,” he said.
