Mr Lateef Oyelekan, National President of the National Union of Food Beverage and Tobacco Employees, has urged the Federal Government to stop the importation of food items, to encourage the local industries.
He told newsmen on Sunday in Lagos that the government should subsidise food items to enable Nigerians to have access to good food.
The unionist explained that it was the duty of government to provide clothing, shelter and food for its citizens, adding that it had no business importing perishable items.
“We don’t need any importation of perishable items; government must encourage and support the manufacturing companies. ’’
He condemned any attempt by the government to increase electricity tariff and called for the stoppage of the importation of generators.
Oyelekan urged government to improve the power situation to ensure the survival of local industries.
He said there had been a near collapse of infrastructure in the country, urging the government to look into it.
“Lack of good roads and rail network has negatively affected businesses in the country with multinational companies relocating to other neighbouring countries for a better environment. ’’
He condemned the granting of licences by the Ministry of Labour to individuals, to recruit contract staff for some companies.
Oyelekan said the union would punish errant companies involved in the practice at the appropriate time.
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