Nigerian workers begin indefinite strike Monday as minimum wage negotiations stall

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC) have declared an indefinite nationwide strike starting Monday, June 3, 2024, over the Federal Government’s refusal to increase the proposed minimum wage from N60,000.

Government’s Inaction and Broken Negotiations

Joe Ajaero, President of the NLC, announced the decision during a press conference at Labour House in Abuja.

Joined by TUC President Festus Osifo, Ajaero expressed “grave concern and disappointment” over the government’s failure to enact a new National Minimum Wage Act and reverse the electricity tariff hike to N65/kWh.

Ajaero criticised the absence of key government officials at a critical meeting on Friday, indicating the government’s lack of commitment to resolving the issue. “No Governor was present, and Ministers were absent except for the Minister of State for Labour and Employment. This demonstrates disdain and a lack of commitment to successful wage negotiations,” the NLC president said.

During the May Day celebration on May 1, 2024, organised labour issued an ultimatum demanding the conclusion of the minimum wage negotiations by the end of May.

However, Ajaero noted, “There has been no significant progress or commitment from the government towards meeting this demand.”

Labour leaders also demanded the reversal of the recent electricity tariff hike to N225/kWh back to N65/kWh and the abolition of the apartheid-like categorisation of consumers into bands.

A nationwide one-day protest was held on May 13, 2024, giving the government until the end of the month to respond. Despite public outcry, the government has not taken any positive action.

Labour’s Stand: Workers Deserve Fair Wages

“Nigerian workers, who are the backbone of our nation’s economy, deserve fair and decent wages that reflect the current economic realities,” Ajaero stated.

He expressed disappointment that the government has neglected its responsibilities despite repeated calls and clear ultimatums.

The labour leader also accused the government of using intimidation tactics against trade union leaders instead of engaging in meaningful dialogue.

“The government should prioritise the welfare of the people. The hike in electricity tariff further impoverishes the already suffering people, denying them the right to a decent living,” he said.

Indefinite Nationwide Strike Announced

In light of the government’s inaction, Ajaero announced the commencement of an indefinite nationwide strike.

“The NLC and TUC hereby issue a notice of commencement of an indefinite nationwide strike to the Federal Government. Since the minimum wage negotiations have not been concluded, the wage increase not passed into law, the tariff hike not reversed, and consumer categorisation not stopped, Nigerian workers are compelled to embark on this industrial action,” he declared.

The NLC and TUC call on all affiliates, state councils, civil society organisations, market traders, and the general public to prepare for decisive action.

“The welfare of Nigerian workers and people is non-negotiable. We are ready to take all necessary steps to ensure their rights are protected and their voices heard,” Ajaero concluded.

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