The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has given state governments until December 1, 2024, to implement the new minimum wage of N70,000, threatening to start indefinite strikes in states that fail to comply.
In a statement issued after its National Executive Council (NEC) meeting on Sunday, the NLC also criticised fuel marketers for inflating petrol prices, claiming Nigerians are being overcharged due to price manipulation in the fuel market.
The labour union alleged that the current pump price is far above actual market rates, putting more financial strain on citizens.
The NLC expressed concern over the severe economic hardship in the country, blaming government policies for worsening poverty and hunger. It urged an immediate review of what it described as “anti-people” policies.
The NLC revealed that while many states have adopted the new minimum wage, some are still lagging. The NLC commended states that have not only met the N70,000 wage but exceeded it, yet cautioned that more than 20 states are still in various stages of implementation.
To push for compliance, the NLC announced plans to form a National Minimum Wage Implementation Committee that will launch a nationwide campaign to raise awareness about the importance of fair wages and the need to resist policies that undermine workers’ dignity.
On the issue of fuel pricing, the NLC expressed frustration with what it called “excessive margins” and alleged that key players in the fuel market were intentionally keeping domestic refineries from coming online to maintain high prices. The union called for the quick restoration of public refineries in Port Harcourt, Warri, and Kaduna to bring relief to the public through fair pricing.
The NLC concluded by stating its commitment to defend Nigerian workers and hold those responsible for economic hardship accountable.
