The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) have warned that they may embark on a nationwide strike over the worsening security situation in the country, raising fresh pressure on the Federal Government.
The warning was issued on Monday by the NLC President, Joe Ajaero, while speaking in Geneva, Switzerland at the ongoing International Labour Conference (ILC).
Ajaero said the continued insecurity across Nigeria has reached unacceptable levels, adding that organised labour could no longer remain silent in the face of growing threats to workers and citizens.
According to him, the labour centres are closely monitoring developments and will not hesitate to take decisive action if the government fails to address the situation.
He also disclosed that both the NLC and TUC are insisting on the immediate commencement of negotiations for the review of the National Minimum Wage ahead of its expected expiration cycle next year.
The labour unions stressed that they reject any attempt to impose a new wage structure without full collective bargaining, insisting that negotiations remain the only acceptable path to determining a fair wage.
“The labour movement will not accept the imposition of a new minimum wage. It must be arrived at through proper negotiation involving all stakeholders,” Ajaero said.
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The unions further called on the Federal Government to prioritise urgent security reforms, warning that continued attacks and insecurity across the country are affecting productivity, livelihoods and workers’ safety.
Labour leaders said the worsening situation has created fear in workplaces and communities, adding that urgent intervention is needed to restore public confidence.
They reaffirmed their commitment to defending workers’ rights while urging government to engage meaningfully with labour representatives to avoid industrial action.
The NLC and TUC said further decisions would be communicated after consultations with their organs, leaving open the possibility of a nationwide strike if their demands are not met.