Nigerian workers have presented fresh demands to the federal government aimed at improving their living standards. The demands were unveiled by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) President, Comrade Joe Ajaero, and his Trade Union Congress (TUC) counterpart, Comrade Festus Osifo, during a rally marking this year’s Workers’ Day in Abuja.
Emphasizing the significance of the workforce, the labour leaders urged the government to prioritize workers’ conditions, stressing that it is essential for national productivity and growth. They called for a living wage that reflects economic realities and motivates workers.
The unions gave the federal government a one-month ultimatum to declare a new minimum wage or face industrial action. They also condemned violence in civic engagement and demanded an investigation into the alleged abduction and brutalization of journalist Segun Olatunji.
Key demands include a reversal of the hike in electricity tariffs, expansion of the National Labour Advisory Council’s activities, registration of new unions in the informal sector, and a review of the presidential system of government. The unions also advocated for the preservation of pension arrangements and a moratorium on taxes from the informal economy.
In response, President Bola Tinubu, represented by Vice President Kashim Shettima, assured workers of imminent resolutions regarding the new national minimum wage. He pledged a commitment to transforming Nigeria into a nation that prioritizes the well-being of its people.
Minister of State for Labour and Employment, Nkeiruka Onyejeocha, reiterated the government’s dedication to concluding negotiations for the new minimum wage, assuring workers that it would take effect from May 1, 2024. She emphasized the government’s openness to transitioning to a living wage that truly values workers’ contributions.
