Negotiations between organized labor and the National Assembly leadership aimed at averting a nationwide strike ended in a stalemate last night. The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) are determined to proceed with the strike, while continuing discussions on their demands.
Senate President Godswill Akpabio expressed concern about the economic impact of the strike, noting it would exacerbate the hardships faced by Nigerians. Attorney General of the Federation and Minister of Justice, Lateef Fagbemi, SAN, labeled the strike as premature and illegal. Presidential media adviser Ajuri Ngelale warned on TVC’s “Politics on Sunday with Femi Akande” about the devastating economic consequences of significantly increasing the minimum wage. Similarly, PDP Governors’ Forum Chairman and Bauchi State Governor, Bala Mohammed, highlighted the financial strain on states unable to meet the proposed minimum wage.
Despite government appeals, aviation labor unions have threatened to shut down airports if the strike proceeds. TUC President, Comrade Festus Osifo, praised Edo State Governor Godwin Obaseki for raising the state’s minimum wage to ₦70,000. Organized labor’s ultimatum to reverse the recent electricity tariff hike by May 31, coupled with demands for a new minimum wage, underscores the escalating tensions.
The federal government’s proposals of incremental wage increases (₦48,000, ₦54,000, and most recently ₦60,000) were rejected by the NLC and TUC, who demand ₦615,500 to address the high cost of living. After lengthy discussions, Osifo emphasized that only their National Executive Council could decide to call off the strike, which would proceed as planned. Akpabio lamented the potential loss of lives and productivity due to the strike, urging labor to return to negotiations.
National Assembly Speaker Tajudeen Abbas indicated efforts to secure an interim wage award of ₦35,000 for federal workers. Minister of Information and National Orientation Muhammad Idris echoed concerns about the strike worsening current hardships and urged labor to accept the interim wage award while negotiations continued. The meeting included key government officials, signaling a high-level commitment to resolving the impasse.
The strike’s impact on essential services and the broader economy remains a pressing concern as both sides continue to seek a resolution.
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