The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has given a firm directive for workers in states that have failed to fully implement the N70,000 national minimum wage to begin an indefinite strike from December 1, 2024. This move comes as part of NLC’s broader campaign for justice and the welfare of Nigerian workers amid worsening economic conditions.
In a strongly-worded communiqué issued after the NLC National Executive Council (NEC) meeting in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, NLC President Joe Ajaero condemned the persistent refusal of some state governments to implement the 2024 National Minimum Wage Act, which has left workers struggling to meet basic needs. The union expressed frustration over this blatant disregard for both legal and moral obligations, highlighting how these governors are undermining the welfare of millions of workers.
Minimum Wage Dispute: NLC Calls for Nationwide Action
The communiqué outlined NLC’s resolve to set up a National Minimum Wage Implementation Committee tasked with mobilizing, educating, and sensitizing citizens on their rights. NLC also vowed to intensify industrial actions in states that have failed to comply with the wage law, emphasizing that the strike will not end until the full implementation of the N70,000 minimum wage across the country.
“As the deadline approaches, all state councils where the national minimum wage is not fully implemented by the end of November 2024 will be directed to proceed on strike starting December 1,” the communiqué stated. The union further stressed that workers demand nothing less than justice and fair treatment.
Economic Hardship Deepens as Inflation Soars
The NEC expressed grave concern over the escalating economic crisis in Nigeria, where inflation continues to rise unchecked, pushing the cost of essential goods beyond the reach of most citizens. Millions of Nigerians are being driven further into poverty, with many families now forced to choose between basic needs such as food and healthcare. The NLC noted that the situation has worsened to the point where serious malnutrition issues, including diseases like Kwashiorkor and Marasmus, are resurfacing.
The union called for urgent, substantial interventions from the federal government to ease the suffering of Nigerian workers, demanding comprehensive social protection policies that provide adequate healthcare and a wage that truly reflects the cost of living.
Rivers State Workers Caught in Political Crossfire
NLC also issued a stern warning against using Rivers State workers as political pawns. In the face of the ongoing political crisis in Rivers, which has seen court orders preventing the state from accessing its federal revenue allocation, the NLC condemned the punitive actions that threaten to destabilize the state’s ability to meet its obligations to workers.
“This is an unacceptable attack on the people of Rivers State, and it sets a dangerous precedent that could destabilize other states,” the communiqué read. “The NLC stands in full solidarity with Rivers State workers and demands that all federal allocations due to the state be disbursed immediately to ensure workers are paid their salaries.”
The NLC further emphasized that its focus is on protecting the livelihoods of workers, irrespective of the political drama unfolding in the state. “We are not interested in political bickering. Our priority is ensuring that workers’ rights are protected and upheld, and we will not tolerate any political games that harm them,” said Ajaero.
Growing Threats to Workers’ Rights and Democracy
The NLC also expressed concern over the erosion of democratic freedoms and workers’ rights in Nigeria. The union highlighted growing instances of arrests, detentions, and trials on dubious grounds aimed at stifling free expression and workers’ organizing activities. In light of this, the NLC urged President Bola Tinubu to expedite the release of all detained protesters and establish safeguards to prevent future violations of citizens’ rights.
While the NLC acknowledged the government’s provision of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses to ease transportation costs for workers, it noted that the number of buses was insufficient to address the growing need. The union called for a substantial increase in the number of buses and the establishment of adequate infrastructure to ensure affordable and accessible transport for workers nationwide.
NLC’s Unyielding Stand for Workers’ Welfare
In conclusion, the NLC reiterated its commitment to the well-being and dignity of Nigerian workers, making it clear that the union would use every available tool to fight for justice. “Our resolve is unshakeable. We demand a Nigeria where workers are respected, their rights upheld, and their futures secure,” the communiqué declared.
The NLC’s call for strike action serves as a powerful reminder of the growing unrest among Nigerian workers, who are increasingly frustrated by the government’s failure to address their basic needs and protect their rights. The coming weeks will likely see intensifying labor unrest, with workers across the nation preparing to take action if their demands for fair wages and social protection go unmet.
