The Lagos Chairperson of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC), Comrade Mrs. Funmi Sessy, has said that labour unions must move away from aggressive methods like banging tables to make demands, and instead adopt smarter, more strategic ways of engagement.
Sessy made this statement during a two-day capacity-building workshop for executive members of the Parliamentary Staff Association of Nigeria (PASAN), Lagos Chapter. The event, which took place at the Lagos State House of Assembly, focused on the theme: *‘The Role of Unionism in a Political Environment.’*
According to Sessy, the era of confrontational unionism is no longer effective. She stressed that union leaders must now use strategy, knowledge, and dialogue to achieve their goals.
“It is no longer about banging tables,” she said. “Now it is about using strategy and knowledge. This kind of programme equips union members with practical understanding and operational skills.”
She appreciated the Speaker of the House, Rt. Hon. Mudashiru Obasa, and the Clerk, Barr. Onafeko Olakekan, for supporting the training. She also encouraged continued training and development to help PASAN members remain on the same level as their peers across the state.
Several top officials of the Lagos Assembly attended the event, including Deputy Clerk Mrs. Adenike Oshinowo, Director of Finance Mrs. Kemi Quadri, Director of Training Princess Jumoke Sotonwa, and Director of Public Affairs Mrs. Branco Adekoya Abisola.
In his remarks, PASAN Lagos Chairman Mr. Babatunde Ogunlana highlighted the importance of union executives understanding their roles in a political environment. He said this was especially important in light of the events of January 13 at the Assembly, which he described as a turning point in the union’s activities.
He noted that the workshop offered a good opportunity for reflection and growth, helping members to better represent their colleagues and engage effectively within the system.
The training is part of wider efforts to professionalise labour unionism in Nigeria, especially within government institutions, where understanding politics and policy is key to effective representation.