ABUJA — Tensions between the Federal Government and Organised Labour have escalated sharply as the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) insists that its 14-day strike ultimatum remains active, warning that soaring inflation and recent pump price hikes have eroded the purchasing power of Nigerian workers.
The ultimatum, issued on October 9, demands that the government immediately reopen negotiations for a revised national living wage, roll back petrol prices to 2024 levels, and implement tax relief measures along with emergency wage awards to ease economic hardship.
Rejecting the Federal Government’s initial formal response to its demands, NLC President Joe Ajaero stated that dialogue without clear timelines or immediate relief measures amounts to empty rhetoric. Ajaero emphasized that despite the adoption of the ₦70,000 minimum wage, sky-rocketing transportation and living costs have left workers unable to meet basic needs.
In response, the Secretary to the Government of the Federation (SGF), Senator George Akume, and the Ministry of Labour appealed for continued dialogue. The government urged organized labour to consider fiscal realities and economic stability, cautioning that premature adjustments to wage structures signed into law just two years prior could prove disruptive.
With the 14-day ultimatum set to expire on October 23, key affiliates of Organised Labour are preparing for potential nationwide industrial action if ongoing negotiations fail to yield binding concessions.
