Economic activities were disrupted in Nasarawa, Kaduna, Ebonyi, and the Federal Capital Territory (FCT) on Monday as members of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) began a one-week warning strike.
The action stems from the non-implementation of the N70,000 minimum wage in several states, despite its approval in October 2024.
Key Highlights of the Strike
States Affected by the Labour Strike
Federal Capital Territory (FCT):
Teachers protested the area councils’ refusal to comply with the new wage structure. Economic activities in Abuja were significantly hindered.
Kaduna State:
Ministries and agencies in the state were shut down, despite the government’s claim of implementing the minimum wage in October (excluding consequential adjustments).
Ebonyi State:
Governor Francis Nwifuru announced a N75,000 minimum wage and issued a 72-hour ultimatum for workers to resume work or face dismissal. Workers, however, dismissed his pronouncement as unimplemented rhetoric.
Nasarawa State:
Labour union members brought state activities to a standstill in protest of unpaid minimum wage adjustments.
NLC’s Response to Government Threats
Benson Upah, the spokesperson for the NLC, praised the strike’s success across the affected states, calling compliance levels “impressive.” He criticized Governor Nwifuru’s ultimatum as “irresponsible” and indicative of a solitary, self-righteous stance.
Background on the Minimum Wage
In July 2024, President Bola Ahmed Tinubu signed the National Minimum Wage Bill into law, mandating a N70,000 minimum wage. While some states have begun implementation, others are delaying, prompting organized labour to take action.
Takeaways for Nigerians
The ongoing strike highlights persistent challenges in implementing the new wage policy nationwide. It underscores the need for better communication and compliance by state governments to avoid further disruptions.
Final Notes
The NLC and TUC remain firm in their stance to ensure the rights of Nigerian workers are upheld. The strike continues, with stakeholders watching how state governments respond in the coming days.
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