Fraction of Nigerian Bakers Opposes Nationwide Strike, Citing Government Agreement

A faction of Nigerian bakers has opted out of a nationwide strike planned to start on Tuesday, citing an agreement with the Federal Government.

The Association of Master Bakers and Caterers of Nigeria (AMBCN) had announced on February 14 that it would begin a nationwide strike on February 27 unless the government honored an agreement to address the challenges faced by bakers in the country.

The opposing faction, led by the President of the Premium Breadmakers Association of Nigeria (PBAN), Emmanuel Onuorah, stated that they would not be participating in the strike.

Onuorah explained that the government had already met the demands of the AMBCN, making the strike unnecessary.

The faction’s decision to abstain from the strike highlights a division within the Nigerian baking community. The AMBCN’s concerns include the rising cost of raw materials, high taxes, and the scarcity of foreign exchange for importing essential ingredients.

The group argues that these factors have made it difficult for bakers to maintain their businesses and provide affordable bread to consumers.

In response to the planned strike, the government has held meetings with representatives of the AMBCN to discuss their grievances and find a resolution.

However, it remains unclear whether the government’s efforts have been sufficient to address the concerns of all Nigerian bakers.

The decision by the opposing faction to continue their operations during the strike raises questions about the unity of the Nigerian baking community and the effectiveness of the planned strike in achieving the AMBCN’s goals.

It remains to be seen whether the strike will have a significant impact on the country’s bread supply and whether the government will take further action to address the concerns of the AMBCN.