Minimum Wage: NLC and TUC Mobilize for Strike Over Tariff Hike

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress of Nigeria (TUC) have alerted civil society organizations and allies about their plans to initiate an industrial action if the government does not reverse the recent electricity tariff hike and finalize the new minimum wage by May 31.

In a joint communiqué issued today, the leaders of both labor centers set a firm deadline for the federal government and the National Electricity Regulatory Commission (NERC) to reverse the tariff increase by the end of the month. They also restated their ultimatum for the government to conclude the new minimum wage negotiations by May 31 or face a nationwide strike.

The NLC and TUC emphasized the urgency of their demands, highlighting the impact of the tariff hike on Nigerian households and businesses. “We cannot stand by while the cost of living continues to rise without a corresponding increase in wages,” said NLC President Joe Ajaero. “The government must act now to alleviate the burden on the people.”

The labor unions have been vocal about the need for a new minimum wage to match the rising inflation and cost of living in the country. They argue that the current minimum wage is insufficient to meet the basic needs of workers and their families.

TUC President Festus Osifo added, “We have engaged in numerous discussions with the government, but our patience is wearing thin. The time for action is now. If our demands are not met by the end of May, we will have no choice but to mobilize our members and the civil society for a nationwide strike.”

The planned strike is expected to draw significant support from various civil society organizations, which have also been critical of the government’s economic policies. The labor unions are coordinating with these groups to ensure a unified response if their demands are not addressed.

The impending industrial action underscores the growing frustration among Nigerian workers over economic issues and the perceived slow response of the government to their concerns. As the May 31 deadline approaches, all eyes will be on the government to see if it will heed the calls for economic relief and wage adjustments.

The NLC and TUC’s stance reflects a broader discontent within the labor sector, as workers seek better living conditions and fair compensation amidst a challenging economic environment.