The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has issued an ultimatum to state governments to fully implement the new minimum wage of ₦70,000 by December 1, 2024. Failure to comply could lead to indefinite strikes in non-compliant states, starting on that date. This announcement followed a National Executive Council (NEC) meeting in which the NLC expressed frustration over the economic hardship facing Nigerian workers, compounded by high fuel prices and the slow pace of wage adjustments across states.
Since President Bola Tinubu’s approval of the new wage in July 2024, over 20 states have reportedly implemented the increase, while others remain in the process. Some states have even committed to paying above the ₦70,000 threshold. However, the NLC argues that delay by remaining states is worsening the financial strain on workers, many of whom are struggling under inflation and rising living costs.
In addition to the wage issue, the NLC condemned fuel marketers for allegedly inflating petrol prices beyond market rates, causing undue hardship for Nigerians. The congress accused these industry players of “padding costs” and inflating margins, with suspicions that they are exploiting Nigerians amid controversy involving fuel marketers and the Dangote Group. As a result, the NLC called for immediate government action to restore operations at domestic refineries in Port Harcourt, Warri, and Kaduna to help regulate fuel prices and reduce dependence on imports.
The NLC’s message reflects a rising demand for economic justice, including an appropriate fuel price policy and immediate implementation of the minimum wage across Nigeria.
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