Abuja: Prof. Jonathan Ogidi, a retired staff member of the National Mathematical Centre (NMC), has urged union members to always engage in dialogue while resolving industrial issues, urging them to desist from confrontational action. Ogidi gave the advice during a send-off ceremony organized by the NMC chapter of the Congress of University Academics (CONUA) in honor of Ogidi and Mrs. Christiana Aje in Abuja on Thursday.
According to News Agency of Nigeria, Ogidi emphasized the importance of dialogue, stating, “I believe strongly in dialogue and I do consider them in that way. Unionism is not a parallel government.” He encouraged NMC academic staff to join the union, highlighting the social assurance gained from union membership. Ogidi remarked, “The masquerade that works alone, they will unveil him, that is why unionism is good.”
Ogidi also urged unionists to contribute to the betterment of the system, advising management on improvements. He expressed gratitude to the leadership of CONUA for the honor, attributing his success to God’s grace and the support of his late mother. Ogidi shared, “If not for God and the effort of my late mother, I will not be anything else than a village boy but for the pastor that said send this boy to school.”
The don further encouraged civil servants to engage in selfless service, underscoring that hard work pays. Earlier, Prof. Promise Mebine, the Director/Chief Executive Officer of NMC, praised the retired staff members for their commitment and humility, emphasizing the importance of treating everyone equally.
Awogbemi Adeyeye, the Chairman of CONUA, highlighted the necessity to honor Ogidi and Aje for their contributions and support to the center and the union. He urged them not to relent in their service to humanity, expressing hope that opportunities missed during their service would be provided by God.