Nigeria’s organised labour movement has warned that the country is at a critical turning point, citing ongoing strikes in the education sector and worsening socio-economic conditions.
Speaking at the May Day rally in Abuja, the Presidents of the Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC), Joe Ajaero and Festus Osifo, described the moment as both significant and urgent. They noted that May Day represents more than a ceremonial date, calling it a reminder of workers’ collective strength and a chance to push for a more equitable society.
Their address came amid disruptions in tertiary institutions caused by strikes from non-academic unions. The labour leaders stressed that workers remain central to national development, emphasizing that no meaningful progress can be achieved without them. They described Nigerian workers as the driving force across key sectors, including education, healthcare, energy, and public administration.
Focusing on the education crisis, they highlighted stalled negotiations involving the Non-Academic Staff Union of Educational and Associated Institutions (NASU) and the Senior Staff Association of Nigerian Universities (SSANU), whose industrial actions have paralysed universities nationwide. They urged the federal government to act swiftly to resolve outstanding issues, including withheld salaries and unpaid allowances, noting that non-teaching staff play a vital role in the university system.
The labour leaders also painted a grim picture of the broader national situation, pointing to rising insecurity and poverty as major barriers to decent work. They argued that it is difficult to sustain employment in an environment where safety is not guaranteed, adding that increasing violence and hardship have made everyday activities risky for many Nigerians.
Citing a poverty rate nearing 65 percent and widespread displacement due to insecurity, they warned that livelihoods are being severely undermined. They called on the government to prioritise security, describing it as the foundation for progress in all sectors.
In addition, the unions criticised what they see as governance shortcomings, including weakened democratic institutions and a lack of accountability. They referenced the swift approval of major loans and inconsistencies in the judicial system as factors eroding public confidence.
On economic performance, the labour movement rejected claims of improvement, arguing that official indicators do not reflect the realities faced by citizens. They stressed that an effective economy must prioritise the welfare of the people, warning that growing inequality and hardship among workers signal deeper structural issues.
The unions advocated a transition to a production-driven economy focused on local industries, job creation, and fair wages. They cautioned that an economic system benefiting only a small elite is unsustainable.
Energy challenges also featured prominently in their address, with criticism of persistent electricity shortages and rising fuel costs. They called the current power framework ineffective and urged a shift toward a more people-oriented model supported by public investment.
Despite these concerns, the labour movement expressed determination and unity, affirming its readiness to take collective action. The leaders underscored solidarity as a key strength in advancing workers’ interests.
Looking toward the 2027 general elections, they encouraged workers to actively participate in the political process by registering, voting, and seeking elective positions. They added that labour support would be reserved for candidates committed to improving workers’ welfare.
They also announced plans to renegotiate the national minimum wage by July 2026 and called for interim measures to ease economic pressures on workers, including the full payment of salaries.
As part of efforts to combat corruption, the unions introduced a campaign tagged “Stop the Bleeding,” aimed at addressing illicit financial flows and systemic resource mismanagement. They warned that corruption continues to deprive the country of its future.
Concluding their address, the labour leaders called for collective responsibility and immediate action, urging Nigerians to move beyond endurance and take an active role in shaping the nation’s future. They maintained that meaningful change can only be achieved through unity and shared commitment.
