The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) have announced a nationwide strike set to begin on Monday, June 3, 2024.
This decision comes in response to the ongoing deadlock in the tripartite committee’s negotiations for a new minimum wage.
TUC President Festus Osifo declared the strike during a joint press conference with NLC leaders in Abuja on Friday. The labour leaders explained that the decision followed the expiration of an ultimatum issued to the Federal Government, demanding the conclusion of all minimum wage negotiations by the end of May.
The organized labour unions had previously withdrawn from negotiations and rejected two proposals from the Federal Government, with the latest offer being N60,000. The unions have been steadfast in their demand for a more substantial increase, citing the rising cost of living and inflationary pressures on workers.
Osifo emphasized that the strike is a last resort after the government failed to address the unions’ demands adequately. “We have been patient and have given ample time for the government to act, but they have not met our expectations. Therefore, we have no choice but to proceed with the strike,” he stated.
The NLC and TUC are calling on all workers and affiliated unions to participate in the strike to press for a fair and livable minimum wage. The strike is expected to affect various sectors, including public services, transportation, and education, as workers nationwide join the action.
The labour unions urge the government to return to the negotiating table with a more acceptable proposal to avert the impending strike. They stress that a fair minimum wage is crucial for maintaining the well-being of Nigerian workers and ensuring economic stability.
As the strike looms, the public and private sectors brace for potential disruptions, hoping for a swift resolution to the wage dispute.
More details to follow…