In a major step toward fostering peace and productivity within the Federal Civil Service, the Office of the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation (OHCSF) has organized a landmark sensitization workshop and formally adopted new guidelines to regulate interactions between management and labour unions in Ministries, Departments, and Agencies (MDAs).
The one-day workshop, held in Abuja, brought together Directors of Human Resources and Union Leaders from across MDAs to bridge communication gaps and promote collaboration between top management and organized labour.
Speaking through the Permanent Secretary, Service Welfare Office, Mrs. Patience Oyekunle, the Head of the Civil Service of the Federation, Mrs. Didi Esther Walson-Jack, OON, mni, described the initiative as timely, citing recurring industrial tensions often caused by poor communication and disregard for due process.
“Unionism is a legitimate platform for protecting workers’ rights,” Walson-Jack stated.
“But its success depends on professionalism, mutual respect, and adherence to the rules of public service. This workshop reaffirms our commitment to dialogue and shared responsibility.”
She outlined the objectives of the initiative, which include strengthening adherence to dispute resolution protocols, promoting civility in labour relations, building mutual trust, and ensuring lasting industrial harmony across the public service.
President of the Joint National Public Service Negotiating Council (JNPSNC), Comrade Shehu Mohammed, commended the OHCSF for the proactive step, describing it as a “clear demonstration of government’s commitment to peaceful and productive labour relations.”
The workshop featured expert-led sessions on topics such as the legal framework for industrial relations, professional dispute resolution, and promoting constructive unionism through ethics, accountability, and communication.
The newly signed “Guidelines for Engagement between Management and Labour Unions in MDAs” were jointly developed by the OHCSF, JNPSNC, and other stakeholders.
The document institutionalizes professionalism, transparency, and fairness in union-management relations and will remain a living framework open to review as the service evolves.