The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) have expressed fresh concerns over the worsening security situation in the country, warning that they may embark on a nationwide strike if urgent action is not taken.
NLC President, Joe Ajaero, made this known on Monday while speaking at the ongoing International Labour Conference in Geneva.
According to Ajaero, Nigerian workers can no longer carry out their daily activities under the constant threat of kidnappings, banditry and other violent crimes.
He said the safety of workers has become a serious concern, noting that many Nigerians leave their homes every day without any assurance of returning safely.
Ajaero warned that organised labour would not remain silent if the security situation continues to worsen.
The labour leader stated that insecurity has negatively affected workers’ productivity and overall well-being across different sectors of the economy. He stressed that protecting the lives and property of citizens remains the primary responsibility of the government.
Beyond security concerns, the NLC and TUC also called on the Federal Government to begin discussions for a fresh review of the national minimum wage.
The labour unions argued that rising living costs and current economic realities have made a wage review necessary.
According to them, negotiations for a new minimum wage should begin before the current agreement expires next year to prevent unnecessary delays and industrial disputes.
The unions maintained that Nigerian workers deserve a living wage that can meet their basic needs, especially as inflation continues to reduce household purchasing power across the country.
Although no date has been announced for any industrial action, the warning signals a possible confrontation between organised labour and the government if the issues of insecurity and wage review are not addressed.
