The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) have warned that a nationwide strike could follow if the Federal Government fails to address workers’ demands at a fresh meeting scheduled for Tuesday, October 27.
The warning came after negotiations between organised labour and government representatives ended without concrete commitments on Thursday, October 22, at the Federal Ministry of Labour in Abuja.
In a joint statement signed by NLC General Secretary, Benson Upah, and TUC Secretary-General, Nuhu Toro, the unions said the government delegation lacked the authority to negotiate meaningfully on the issues presented.
“No concrete commitments were secured, and the outstanding issues remain unresolved,” the unions said.
The Minister of Labour reportedly requested an adjournment to allow the government to prepare for the next session and ensure the attendance of relevant ministers and heads of departments and agencies.
Labour said its next decision would depend on the outcome of Tuesday’s discussions, while directing its affiliates and state councils to prepare for possible industrial action.
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“We will report back to our organs, and if no meaningful progress is made on Tuesday, the relevant organs of the NLC will decide the next line of action,” the statement added.
The unions are demanding a reduction in petrol prices to 2024 levels, renewed negotiations on the national minimum wage, implementation of agreed tax relief measures and resolution of outstanding disputes affecting health workers and other public servants.
They also urged their affiliates, state councils and civil society allies to remain vigilant, while appealing to workers and the public to remain calm as negotiations continue.
The dispute comes amid sustained pressure on household incomes following rising living costs and recent economic reforms.
Nigeria’s minimum wage rose from ₦30,000 to ₦70,000 under the National Minimum Wage Act, 2024, but labour leaders are seeking further discussions on workers’ pay and purchasing power.
Other unresolved matters include allowances, wage awards and hazard payments raised by the Joint Public Service Negotiating Council, alongside outstanding settlement issues involving the Joint Health Sector Unions.
The unions said they remained open to dialogue but warned that failure to secure meaningful progress could prompt their respective organs to consider industrial action.