Commencement of an indefinite nationwide strike in relation owing to unfinished negotiations over the ‘NATIONAL MINIMUM WAGE’ and rejection of static electricity cost.

The Nigerian Labour Congress (NLC) and Trade Union Congress (TUC) express their deep concern and disappointment over the failure of the Federal Government to draft and pass a new National Minimum Wage Act and roll back the severe increase in electricity tariff to 65 Naira per kWh making Today’s meeting once again proved the dubiousness and blatant contempt of the Nigerian State for being responsive to the demands of the Nigerian workers and people Neither the Governor nor any Cabinet member was present except the Minister of Labour and Employment who also acts as arbitrator There was no one present on the government side with the proper authority to bind the government to any outcome In effect the government cancelled the meeting We consider this to be contemptuous and a sign of lack of commitment to successful negotiations on the National Minimum Wage You will recall that in our last May celebration on 1st May 2024, we gave a clear ultimatum to the Federal Government, demanding that this vital measure be completed by the end of the month However, there has been no significant progress or commitment from the government to meet this demand We also called for the reversal of the previous increase in electricity tariff from 225 naira/kWh to 65 naira/kWh and an end to the apartheid-induced division of consumers into groups We held a one-day protest across the country on 13th May 2024, giving the government until the end of the month to act However, despite public outrage over this ruthless increase, the government has not responded consistently and proactively Nigerian workers who form the backbone of our economy have a right to a fair and decent wage that reflects the current economic reality It is regrettable that despite our repeated appeals and clear ultimatums, the government continues to ignore its responsibilities towards the workers Instead of engaging in dialogue, it constantly unleashes attack dogs to smear and intimidate union leaders.