The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) have confirmed that their planned indefinite strike over the new minimum wage will proceed as scheduled. The decision was reaffirmed on Sunday, June 2, despite last-minute efforts by the National Assembly leadership to avert a potential economic shutdown by the unions.
The leadership of both NLC and TUC emphasized their commitment to the strike, highlighting that it is a necessary response to unmet demands for an increase in the minimum wage. This decision comes after extensive negotiations and failed attempts to reach a satisfactory agreement with the government.
While the National Assembly leadership has appealed to the unions to suspend the proposed strike and allow for further dialogue, the unions have stated that they will convene to discuss this appeal. However, they underscored that any decision to alter their course of action would involve comprehensive consultations with their members and stakeholders.
The organized labour groups maintain that the strike is crucial to ensure that workers’ rights and welfare are adequately addressed. They argue that the current minimum wage is insufficient to meet the rising cost of living, and a significant increase is essential for the well-being of Nigerian workers.
Further details on the developments and the unions’ final decision are expected to be released shortly.
