The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has warned that its two-week ultimatum to the Federal Government remains in force, increasing fears of a possible nationwide strike over petrol prices and workers’ wages.
NLC President Joe Ajaero restated the union’s position Monday in Abuja, insisting that the government must address workers’ hardship and begin negotiations for a new national minimum wage.
“I’ve not come here to discuss my ultimatum.
"My ultimatum stands,” Ajaero said at a retreat organised by the National Salaries, Incomes and Wages Commission.
He added, “Nigerian workers are really suffering.
"And if you do something, history and posterity will remember all of us for it.”
The NLC issued the 14-day ultimatum on Oct. 9, demanding a reduction in petrol prices to their 2024 level, fresh minimum wage negotiations, tax relief and immediate wage awards to cushion rising living costs.
The union argues that the current ₦70,000 minimum wage has lost much of its value because of inflation and higher transportation and food costs.
“The point we are making is not strike.
"The point we are making is that whether you enter bus or you buy fuel, you will not be able to eat,” Ajaero said.
The Federal Government, however, has called for a balance between workers’ demands and its financial capacity.
Secretary to the Government of the Federation George Akume said wage decisions must reflect economic realities while protecting workers’ welfare.
“The commission must continually balance the legitimate expectations of workers with the fiscal realities of government and broader imperatives of national economic development,” he said.
The government has urged continued dialogue to prevent industrial disputes, but the NLC insists that urgent action is needed to ease workers’ hardship.
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