The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has mandated its state councils to embark on an indefinite strike starting December 1, 2024, in states where the new minimum wage of N70,000 is not fully enforced.
The directive followed a meeting of the National Executive Council (NEC) in Port Harcourt, Rivers State, where NLC President Joe Ajaero issued a communiqué highlighting concerns about worsening economic policies.
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Expressing frustration over the delay in implementing the 2024 National Minimum Wage Act, the NLC criticized certain state governments for failing to comply with the new wage law. “This betrayal by some governors goes against both legality and morality,” the communiqué stated.
“Workers continue to be denied their rightful wages amid increasing economic hardship, reflecting a blatant disregard for the law and the lives of millions of Nigerian workers.”
The NLC announced the formation of a National Minimum Wage Implementation Committee to assess and mobilize support for the wage law’s enforcement. It also warned of industrial actions in non-compliant states, stating, “All state councils where the National Minimum Wage has not been fully implemented by the end of November 2024 are directed to commence a strike from December 1, 2024. Nigerian workers demand justice, and justice they shall have.”
Addressing the economic challenges faced by Nigerians, the NLC expressed grave concern over the rising inflation and cost of living. “Millions of Nigerians are driven into destitution, forced to choose between feeding their families and seeking healthcare,” it noted.
The NLC urged the Federal Government to implement comprehensive social protection policies and conduct a nationwide wage review to alleviate the burden on citizens. “We need immediate, concrete interventions, not token measures,” the communiqué demanded.
On the ongoing political crisis in Rivers State, the NLC condemned the court order that seeks to withhold the state’s federally allocated revenue. The communiqué stated, “Such a move could cripple the state’s ability to meet its obligations to workers and residents. We demand an immediate resolution to ensure Rivers State has access to its rightful revenue.”
The NLC also criticized the increasing erosion of democratic norms, highlighting the growing threats to democracy and workers’ rights. “The NEC expresses grave alarm at the disregard for the rights of Nigerians to freely organize and express dissent,” it stated, while urging the President to release all detained protesters and prevent future occurrences.
Regarding the Federal Government’s provision of Compressed Natural Gas (CNG) buses to the NLC, the NEC appreciated the gesture but pointed out the inadequacy of the buses and the lack of sufficient CNG infrastructure.
“We call for the provision of more CNG buses and the establishment of necessary infrastructure to ensure affordable transportation for workers,” the communiqué added.
The NLC reaffirmed its commitment to protecting the rights and welfare of Nigerian workers, vowing to confront injustices with unwavering resolve. “Our demand is clear: a Nigeria where workers are respected, their rights upheld, and their futures secure,” the NLC emphasized.
