The newly elected President of the Radio, Television, Theatre and Arts Workers Union of Nigeria (RATTAWU), Comrade Prince Emeka Kalu and the Central Working Committee members, paid a courtesy visit to the Minister of Labour and Employment, Hon. Muhammad Digyadi. The purpose of the visit was to express gratitude for the ministry’s role in ensuring a peaceful election. This gesture underscores the union’s appreciation for the ministry’s oversight in their electoral process.
The union’s national election, held on July 16, 2025, in Gombe State, was conducted under the ministry’s strict supervision. This oversight was instrumental in ensuring that the election was free, fair, and transparent. Comrade Kalu’s emergence as the 8th elected president of RATTAWU marked a significant milestone for the union. His leadership is expected to bring new dynamics and progress to the organization.
One notable aspect of the election was the absence of litigation, a first in the union’s 48-year history. This achievement is a testament to the effectiveness of the ministry’s supervision and the maturity of the union’s leadership. The peaceful nature of the election reflects positively on both the union and the ministry.
The Minister, Hon. Digyadi, expressed delight over the peaceful nature of the election. He commended the union’s leadership and members for their cooperation and commitment to a fair electoral process. This development is a credit to the union’s democratic processes and the ministry’s role in facilitating them.
Also Read: Fresh Oil Spill Hits Ogoniland Amid Ongoing Environmental Clean-Up
During the visit, Comrade Kalu also discussed pressing issues affecting the union’s members. One key issue raised was the need for a special salary scale for media and cultural workers. Comrade Kalu emphasized the essential roles these workers play in promoting national unity and development, and thus, deserving of a salary structure that reflects their importance.
The Minister, Hon. Digyadi, pledged to support RATTAWU’s demand for a special salary scale, acknowledging the valuable contributions of its members. He noted that as long as RATTAWU members continue to make the nation proud in their duty posts, the ministry will work tirelessly to ensure their welfare is prioritized. This development is a positive step towards improving the working conditions of media and cultural workers in Nigeria.
In a related development, the Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Hon. Nkiruka Onyejeocha, praised RATTAWU for electing a president from the South Eastern part of the country, a first in the union’s history. She promised to help facilitate consultations with relevant stakeholders, including the Minister for Information and the Minister for Culture and Tourism, to ensure the special salary structure for media and cultural sectors is actualized.
Comrade Emeka Kalu assured that he will continue to engage all stakeholders across the board to improve the union’s visibility and enhance members’ welfare. With the support of the ministry and other stakeholders, RATTAWU is poised to make significant strides in promoting the interests of its members and contributing to Nigeria’s development.
