The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has called on the government to prioritize the welfare and wellbeing of citizens as it approaches the year 2025. In a statement made by NLC President Joe Ajaero, the organization emphasized the urgent need for an upward review of wages to address the soaring cost of living, which has become a pressing issue for many Nigerians [a96b0279]. This appeal comes in the wake of ongoing tensions between the NLC and the Nigerian government, particularly regarding workers' rights and economic conditions.
Ajaero's remarks follow a series of protests and threats of nationwide strikes by the NLC, particularly in response to police actions against him, which have raised concerns about the union's leadership and its ability to advocate effectively for workers [4667ae95]. The NLC has also urged the government to withdraw a controversial Tax Bill currently before the National Assembly, advocating for greater stakeholder involvement in such decisions [a96b0279].
In addition to wage reviews, the NLC is advocating for improved access to essential services such as food, healthcare, housing, education, and security. The organization has stressed the importance of social dialogue and inclusivity in governance, calling for compliance with the 2024 National Minimum Wage Act, which aims to protect workers' rights [a96b0279].
The backdrop of these demands includes a fragile economic landscape, with inflation rates soaring and the exchange rate reaching alarming levels, making the NLC's push for better conditions particularly relevant [49ea2caf]. As the NLC prepares to engage with the government on these issues, the organization is promoting a united effort to ensure a productive Nigeria where workers' rights are safeguarded [a96b0279].