The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC) have issued a stark warning to the federal government, threatening a nationwide strike lasting 30 days if plans to deregulate the national minimum wage proceed as proposed by the National Assembly.
Speaking passionately at the 67th Nigeria Employers’ Consultative Association Annual General Meeting in Lagos, NLC President Joe Ajaero denounced the legislative move that would remove the minimum wage from the Exclusive Legislative List, thereby granting state governors the authority to set minimum wage rates independently.
Ajaero condemned the proposal, predicting dire consequences for Nigerian workers, whom he argued would be subjected to “slave wages” if state-level determinations were allowed to prevail. He emphasized that such a policy shift would exacerbate poverty and inequality across the country.
“The constitution of Nigeria guarantees equal pay for equal work, irrespective of the state or region where the work is performed,” Ajaero asserted. He underscored that decentralizing wage determination would contravene principles of equity and the fundamental right to equal treatment under the law.
Citing international standards, Ajaero highlighted the International Labour Organisation’s recognition of minimum wages as a national law, safeguarding against regional disparities that could lead to exploitative labor practices.
The labour unions have called on the National Assembly to uphold the sanctity of the minimum wage as a national benchmark, arguing that any deviation would undermine the welfare of Nigerian workers and their families.
As tensions escalate over this contentious issue, the NLC and TUC have mobilized their members nationwide, preparing for what could be one of the largest industrial actions in recent history if their demands are not met. The threat of a 30-day strike looms large, promising widespread disruption across key sectors of the Nigerian economy unless a resolution is swiftly reached.
Government officials have yet to respond officially to the ultimatum issued by the labour unions, setting the stage for intense negotiations in the coming days to avert a potentially crippling national strike.
