The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has instructed its members in states yet to implement the new minimum wage to begin an indefinite strike from December 1, 2024.
This directive follows the NLC’s National Executive Council (NEC) meeting, where the persistent delay and refusal of some state governments to implement the 2024 National Minimum Wage Act were strongly condemned.
“The NEC notes with deep frustration the persistent delay and outright refusal by some state governments to implement the 2024 National Minimum Wage Act,” the NLC communique read.
“This betrayal by certain governors and government officials across the country flies in the face of both legality and morality, as workers continue to be denied their rightful wages amidst rising economic hardship”.
The NLC views this delay as a blatant disregard for the law and the lives of millions of Nigerian workers, who are being exploited by the very leaders sworn to protect them. To address this, the NLC will establish a National Minimum Wage Implementation Committee to assess, mobilize, and sensitize workers and citizens nationwide.
Furthermore, the NLC shall initiate industrial actions in non-compliant states, demanding immediate and concrete interventions from the Federal Government to alleviate the worsening economic situation. “We call for the implementation of comprehensive social protection policies that shield Nigerians from poverty, provide affordable healthcare, and ensure a wage that reflects the true cost of living”.
The NLC also demands a wage review across the nation, including a review of policies that have negatively impacted Nigerian people. All state councils where the National Minimum Wage has not been fully implemented by November 30, 2024, have been directed to proceed on strike from December 1, 2024. “Nigerian workers demand justice, and justice they shall have”.
DP/NGG
