Association of Senior Staff Banks, Insurance and Financial Institutions (ASSBIFI) says it remains committed to the defence of Nigerian workers, especially within the financial sector.
Oyinkan Olasanoye, president of ASSBIFI, gave the commitment while speaking with labour writers in Lagos, as part of activities to mark the 40th anniversary of the senior staff union, just as she harped on the need for employers within the sector to recognise and respect the right of workers to belong to unions.
Olasanoye, who decried the inclination of employers, especially the banks to standing workers, said it was also disturbing that several banks in the country not only operate with a mass of casual workers, but many of the workers were denied their basic rights as workers.
According to the first female ASSBIFI president, while casualisation of workers seems to have become a global trend, the manner it is, however, being done in Nigeria leaves much to be desired.
Olasanoye said the association was concerned about the development, because in some cases, frauds within the financial sector had been linked to casual workers.
“We’re worried as a union and therefore call on the management of the banks to give the so-called casual workers direct employment or in the least treat them with dignity and allow enjoy the benefits that befit a worker.”
On the 40 years of existence of association, the president said “That ASSBIFI is 40 years is no big deal; but what ASSBIFI has been able to achieve in this turbulent and capitalist ridden economy is a big deal. I am proud to say that ASSBIFI has come of age, we have a robust and intimidating image within the shores of Nigeria and the diaspora.
We have demonstrated unprecedented integrity in the course of protecting the interest and welfare of our members, and in the nation building at large,” she said.
