NLC gives FG until October 27 to meet workers’ demands, threatens nationwide action
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has given the Federal Government until October 27 to resolve outstanding workers’ demands, warning that nationwide action could follow if negotiations fail.
The congress extended the deadline after a meeting between government representatives and organised labour in Abuja ended in a deadlock on Thursday, despite the expiration of the initial two-week ultimatum issued on October 8.
The NLC’s Acting General Secretary, Benson Upah, disclosed this in a statement, accusing the government delegation of attending the meeting without the authority required to make commitments on the issues raised by labour.
According to him, the meeting was held at the headquarters of the Federal Ministry of Labour but ended without any concrete agreement.
Upah said the meeting was adjourned until October 27 at the request of the Minister of Labour to enable the government to bring relevant ministers and heads of departments and agencies to the negotiating table.
He urged NLC affiliates, state councils and civil society allies to begin preparations for possible nationwide action while awaiting the government’s response.
The congress is demanding a reduction in petrol prices to 2024 levels, renegotiation of the national minimum wage and the implementation of previously agreed tax relief measures.
Its demands also include the implementation of the terms of settlement reached with the Joint Health Sector Unions and Assembly of Healthcare Professionals (JOHESU), alongside outstanding issues raised by the Joint Public Sector Negotiating Council (JPSNC).
