Anambra Heavy Equipment Operators Demand Better Welfare, Industrial Harmony

The leadership of the Heavy Equipment Operators Section (HEOPS) of the Nigerian Union of Mine Workers (NUMW), Anambra State chapter, has called for improved workers’ welfare, strict adherence to labour laws and work ethics, and greater commitment to duty to foster industrial harmony and boost productivity in the sector.

Chairman of HEOPS, Comrade Kelvin Chibuzor Onyah, made the call during a strategic one-day face-to-face meeting of the union held yesterday in Awkuzu, Oyi Local Government Area of Anambra State.

Onyah warned that persistent intimidation and harassment, non-payment of salaries, inadequate welfare and other forms of maltreatment allegedly suffered by heavy equipment operators at the hands of expatriate and local employers could undermine productivity and impede development.

He also condemned the reported sudden suspension of some operators by their employers without proper investigation, describing the practice as a breach of work ethics.

He, however, assured members that the union would intervene in complaints brought before it to ensure fairness, peaceful resolution of disputes and harmonious relations between employers and employees.

The meeting also witnessed the appointment of seven new executive officers to strengthen the union and improve the administration of its affairs in the state.

The appointments followed the existence of vacant positions reportedly created by inactivity and the abandonment of duties and responsibilities by previous office holders.

Those appointed include Comrade Alagwu Enyibuike Chijioke, State Vice Chairman; Comrade Sabo Malachy, Assistant State Secretary; Mr Anozie Nzubechukwu, State Financial Secretary; and Smart C. Osigwe, Assistant Financial Secretary.

Others are Comrade Ibrahim Odaudu, Taskforce 3; Comrade Tony Agadi, Elder Statesman 2; and Comrade Wesu Momodu Kebiru, Elder Statesman 3.
Onyah urged members to prioritise the unity, growth and progress of the union by making meaningful contributions, paying their dues regularly and upholding the image of the organisation.

He expressed concern over what he described as the poor treatment of heavy equipment operators in Ogbaru, Onitsha and other local government areas of the state, particularly the payment of hiring fees as low as N20,000, N15,000 and N10,000, instead of the officially approved N30,000 or above.

According to him, the union would consult with the labour leadership and engage defaulting companies and organisations with a view to reviewing the hiring fee upward to N50,000, in line with current economic realities and rates applicable to operators in other parts of the country.

Onyah stressed that heavy equipment operators remain critical to infrastructural development, economic growth and social advancement, both in Nigeria and globally.

“The work of heavy equipment operators is very strategic and indispensable because, without them, there can be no road construction, building of houses and bridges, movement of heavy materials, and even production cannot take place in most companies due to their essential services.”
He added that their strategic role in construction and civil engineering made proper welfare and fair treatment essential.
“These explain why they must be treated fairly and genuinely with regard to their welfare issues,” Onyah said.

He also urged operators to maintain discipline and professionalism while carrying out their duties, stressing that mutual respect between employers and employees was essential for sustained industrial peace.

“And, of course, they are expected to behave well and be disciplined wherever they are doing their jobs, without any form of maltreatment, harassment or intimidation. That harmony must be there and guaranteed at all times for there to be peace, growth and development in the country. Those are my expectations and our desires,” he stated.

Onyah commended the administration of Prof. Charles Soludo in Anambra State and the Federal Government for ongoing road infrastructure and other construction projects, which he said had created employment opportunities for heavy equipment operators and youths.

He also praised the prevailing atmosphere of peace and security in the state, saying it had provided a conducive environment for the union’s activities.
The Nigerian Union of Mine Workers (NUMW) is an affiliate of the Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC).

Onyah reaffirmed his commitment to repositioning the union, saying, “This union is for good. It’s not a religious body or an ethnic group. Many are called, but few are chosen. I am here as the State Chairman by your choice and God’s grace.”

He assured members that the leadership was working to resolve longstanding challenges confronting the union.
“We are doing everything possible to solve the problems and challenges that have faced the union in the past,” .

He further stressed the importance of accountability, prudent financial management and sacrifice among members and executives.

“There is the need for accountability and prudent management of funds that accrue to the union. The executives and members must make sacrifices, be committed and render positive service,” Onyah added.