The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has rejected the Federal Government’s response to its 14-day ultimatum, raising fears of a possible nationwide strike if the dispute over workers’ demands remains unresolved.
The labour union, in a letter dated Oct. 13 and signed by its President, Joe Ajaero, faulted the government’s position that negotiations for a new national minimum wage before June 2027 would be premature.
The NLC argued that preparations for a new wage agreement should begin immediately, insisting that rising prices have made the current ₦70,000 minimum wage inadequate.
“The Congress notes that, for the first time in recent history, the Ministry has responded with relative speed to our resolutions,” the letter said.
“However, while we appreciate this prompt acknowledgement, we are constrained to observe that speed without substance may amount to an empty gesture.”
The union’s ultimatum, which began Oct. 9, demands that the government reduce petrol prices to their level when the current minimum wage was signed into law in 2024.
It also wants the implementation of tax relief measures agreed upon in 2023, immediate wage awards to cushion the rising cost of living, and the implementation of agreements with health sector unions and the Joint Public Sector Negotiating Council.
The Federal Government, however, maintains that the current minimum wage is due for review on June 1, 2027, in line with the law providing for a three-year review cycle.
The government said it was working with relevant ministries and agencies to address the union’s other demands and remained committed to dialogue.
The NLC disagreed, arguing that workers’ earnings had lost value because of inflation, the falling naira and rising costs of food, transportation, health care and education.
Although the union has not formally declared an immediate strike, they have warned that failure to resolve the dispute before the ultimatum expires could lead to industrial action.
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