The Federal Government has invited the leadership of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) to another meeting at the Presidential Villa in Abuja.

This comes after the earlier meeting between the government and the labour leaders ended in a stalemate, with the government refusing to meet the NLC's demand for a reversal of the recent hike in fuel prices.

The fresh meeting is scheduled for 6pm today and will focus on the issues of fuel prices, electricity tariffs and other demands by the labour unions.

In a statement, the presidency said the meeting is aimed at ensuring "that the interest of Nigerian workers and other Nigerians are well protected while at the same time ensuring that the government continues to meet its obligations to all Nigerians."

The statement added that the government is "committed to an outcome that will not only be beneficial to all Nigerians but will also bring about a just and lasting solution to the challenges currently being faced by the country." It remains to be seen if the two sides can reach an agreement at the upcoming meeting.

The ongoing impasse between the labour unions and the government has caused disruptions in economic activities across the country.

Labour unions have called for a nationwide strike on Tuesday, October 3, 2023, if the government does not reverse the recent hike in fuel prices and electricity tariffs. The last nationwide strike by labour unions, in July 2023, resulted in the shutdown of banks, businesses and schools across the country. With the economy already struggling due to high inflation and a weak currency, the potential strike could have serious economic consequences.

Many Nigerians are calling on both the government and the labour unions to find a compromise that will end the impasse and avoid further disruptions to the economy. Some have called for the government to reconsider its economic policies, while others have urged the unions to be more open to dialogue.

The situation is being closely watched by investors and international organizations, who are concerned about the impact on Nigeria's economy.

There is a lot at stake for both the government and the labour unions, and it is hoped that they can find a way to resolve the crisis in the interest of all Nigerians.