The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has issued a Dec. 1 ultimatum for all state governments to implement the new minimum wage, warning of potential strikes in non-compliant states. The NLC’s decision was announced in a statement by its President, Joe Ajaero, following the conclusion of a National Executive Council (NEC) meeting held in Port Harcourt.
Expressing frustration over delays in wage implementation, Ajaero condemned the inaction of certain governors, calling it a “blatant disregard” for Nigerian workers’ rights amid escalating economic hardship. “This betrayal by some state leaders defies both legality and morality as millions struggle under a worsening economy,” he said.
To address the situation, the NLC has established a National Minimum Wage Implementation Committee, which will mobilize workers and advocate for full wage compliance. Ajaero added that industrial actions would begin in states failing to meet the Dec. 1 deadline, vowing the NLC’s “unwavering commitment” to ensure fair wages.
The NLC also raised broader concerns, highlighting surging inflation and high fuel prices that have pushed many into poverty. Ajaero called on the federal government to implement effective social protection policies and review the current pricing of petrol, urging immediate operational support for Nigeria’s domestic refineries in Port Harcourt, Warri, and Kaduna to reduce dependency on foreign imports.
Additionally, Ajaero appealed to President Bola Tinubu for the release of protesters detained during recent demonstrations, emphasizing the need for legal safeguards to prevent similar arrests in the future.
While the NLC acknowledged the government’s provision of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses to ease transportation costs, it noted the inadequacy of current CNG infrastructure to meet workers’ needs. “Without extensive upgrades, these solutions may fall short of achieving their intended relief for the average worker,” Ajaero said.
The NLC reaffirmed its commitment to championing the welfare and dignity of Nigerian workers, stressing the urgency for state governments to uphold their obligations as the Dec. 1 deadline approaches.
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