Labour Minister tasks Nigerians on improved productivity

As FG Confers Merit Award on eminent Nigerians today

The Minister of Labour and Employment, Sen. Chris Ngige has urged all Nigerians to strive towards improved productivity in tandem with the change agenda of President Muhammadu Buhari which is aimed at sustainable growth and development of the nation.

Ngige made the call as the Federal Government will today confers National Productivity Order of Merit Award (NPOM) on 15 deserving individuals and six Organizations in Abuja.

Ngige, while briefing the media on the activities marking the celebration of the 16th National Productivity Day, and conferment of the Order of Merit Award  said the Buhari government is conscious of the critical role improved productivity can play in the realization of the Change Agenda.

He said: “I wish to appeal to all Nigerians to reflect deeply on the significance of this celebration especially in the face of Mr. President’s Change Agenda and our vision of bringing the economy out of recession to a path of steady growth and prosperity. We should constantly strive to improve our productivity in all facets of our daily lives towards ensuring sustainable growth and development of our dear nation.”

He pointed out that no nation can be self-reliant and competitive in the international market without improved productivity in all sectors of its economy, adding that no nation enjoys a standard of living higher than its level of productivity.

Ngige emphasized that the National Productivity Order of Merit award is one positive step by government to stimulate the psyche of Nigerians towards redirecting their efforts to the growth of the economy.

Among those to be conferred with the NPOM Award are: Prof. Ibrahim Abubakar Njodi, Mrs. Mary Adenike Ibikunle, Dr. Kabiru Ibrahim Aliyu, Mr. Olubola Olakunle Aikulola, Mr. Idi Mohammed Maleh, Mrs. Elizabeth Igelegba, Mr. Aminu Aliyu Bisalla Mrs. Saratu AZI, Prof. Mohammed Sanni Abdulkadir, Dr. Yemi Kale, Comrade Mike Akpotosewe, Prof. Ukandi Damachi, Engr. Emeka Okwuosa, Prof. Okey Mbonu, Engr. Kashim Ali and Fidson Health Care Plc Lagos, Olam Nigeria Ltd, Friesland Campina Wamco Nig. Ltd, Nigeria Bottling Company Ltd and Chicason Group.

Apart from the conferment of the award, a lecture titled “Productivity for Sustainable Entrepreneurship and Employment.” will be delivered by the Minister of Mines and Steel Development, Dr. Kayode Fayemi; and the exhibition of made in Nigeria goods.