NLC Directs Members To Proceed On Strike Over Non-Implementation Of Minimum Wage

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has instructed its members in states that have yet to implement the 2024 National Minimum Wage Act to initiate an indefinite strike from December 1, 2024.

This directive was part of the resolutions from the NLC’s National Executive Council (NEC) meeting held over the weekend.

The NLC expressed frustration over the delays and outright refusals by certain state governments to enact the new minimum wage. The NEC described this as a betrayal by state leaders, which violates both legal and moral obligations. It pointed out that many workers are denied fair compensation amidst worsening economic conditions, deeming it a severe disregard for both the law and the livelihood of millions of Nigerian workers.

As a response, the NLC has decided to establish a National Minimum Wage Implementation Committee tasked with conducting assessments, mobilizing workers, and raising awareness nationwide. The committee will lead a campaign to inform workers and the public on the necessity of opposing this violation of workers’ rights. The NLC emphasized that strikes and other industrial actions would persist in states that do not comply with the minimum wage law by November 30, 2024.

In another development, the NLC has accused petroleum marketers of inflating petrol prices, asserting that these prices are much higher than the market value. According to the NLC, these marketers are taking advantage of Nigerians and worsening the economic burden already imposed by stringent government policies.

The NEC expressed concern over the manipulation of petrol pricing, indicating that there seems to be an exploitative collaboration among influential industry figures. It pointed to the conflict between marketers and the Dangote Group as evidence of price padding and excessive profit margins. This, the NLC believes, contributes to the delay in fully operationalizing local public refineries, such as those in Port Harcourt, Warri, and Kaduna, which could disrupt the dominance of powerful players in the industry.

The NLC urged for fair pricing and called for domestic refineries to resume operations swiftly to weaken the monopolistic control in the sector.

Regarding Nigeria’s worsening economic climate, the NLC highlighted deep concerns over the escalating financial strain on citizens, driven by unchecked inflation and soaring costs of essential goods and services.

The NLC called on the Federal Government to introduce comprehensive, tangible measures to alleviate citizens’ suffering. It demanded robust social protection programs that would combat poverty, ensure affordable healthcare, and implement a wage that aligns with the true cost of living. The NLC also pushed for a general wage review and the revision of policies that have hindered the well-being of the Nigerian people.