There are concerns over a nationwide Labour strike as the Organized labour union has directed its state councils and civil society partners across Nigeria to initiate nationwide mobilization for potential industrial action following a deadlocked meeting with the Federal Government over gas prices and minimum wage renegotiations.
In a joint statement, the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) asserted that union leaders presented their demands in good faith during the October 22, 2026 meeting.
The unions’ core demands include reducing gas prices to 2024 levels, renegotiating the national minimum wage, implementing agreed tax relief measures, fulfilling the JOHESU terms of settlement, and resolving JPSNC claims regarding special allowances, wage awards, and hazard allowances.
The statement read in part, “Regrettably, the government delegation came unprepared and without the necessary mandates to engage substantively on these issues. No concrete commitments were secured, and the outstanding issues remain unresolved.”
Speaking further, the union said that while it remains committed to dialogue, it would not accept indefinite delay.
“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,” it said.
“We assure all that we shall continue to pursue the interests of workers and the masses through every legitimate means available,” it added.
Backstory…
This also comes as the union gave the Federal Government until October 27, 2026, to review minimum wage, and meet its demands or face a potential nationwide shutdown of economic activity.
NLC Acting General Secretary Benson Upah announced the deadline in a statement on Thursday following a meeting with the Minister of Labour.
The latest ultimatum by the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) comes amid renewed tensions between organised labour and the Federal Government over rising petrol prices, teachers welfare, declining workers’ purchasing power and delays in addressing outstanding labour demands.
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