Nigeria Labour Congress Sets December 1 Ultimatum for State Minimum Wage Implementation Amid Inflation Concerns

• NLC Accuses Fuel Marketers of Inflating Petrol Prices, Urges Government Accountability

By DAYO ADESULU

Lagos, Nigeria — The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has issued a December 1, 2024 ultimatum for state governments to adopt the new minimum wage or face an indefinite workers’ strike. In its latest National Executive Council (NEC) meeting, the NLC expressed frustration over delayed wage increases, accusing fuel marketers of artificially inflating petrol prices, contributing to widespread economic hardship.

NLC: “Nigerians Face Severe Economic Hardship”

In a communique released on Sunday, the NLC highlighted rising inflation and increasing poverty, which it attributed to government policies and exploitation within the fuel sector. According to the NLC, many Nigerians endure worsening financial conditions as the cost of living soars.

“The NEC-in-session noted with increasing dismay the shenanigans around the appropriate pricing of petrol in Nigeria,” the NLC’s statement read. “The NEC observed that Nigerian workers and masses are being exploited by certain industry players whose inflated costs result in higher petrol prices.”

December 1 Deadline for State Compliance with Minimum Wage

President Bola Tinubu approved a minimum wage increase from N30,000 to N70,000 in July 2024 to improve workers’ living standards. While more than 20 states have reportedly begun implementing the new wage, others remain non-compliant.

To push for full compliance, the NLC directed state councils in non-compliant areas to initiate an indefinite strike on December 1, 2024.

“All state councils where the national minimum wage has not been fully implemented by November 30, 2024, have been directed to proceed on strike beginning December 1,” the communique warned, adding that “Nigerian workers demand justice, and justice they shall have.”

Fuel Pricing Controversy and Allegations of Market Manipulation

Beyond wages, the NLC voiced concerns about alleged price manipulation in the fuel sector. It cited evidence suggesting that the current pump price is substantially higher than the actual market value, with “padding of costs” and “abnormal margins” impacting consumers.

The NLC demanded swift government intervention to ensure fair pricing, calling for the immediate restoration of domestic refineries in Port Harcourt, Warri, and Kaduna to curb reliance on costly imported fuel.

“It is entirely possible that Nigerian workers and masses are being ripped off by those who control the levers of economic power,” the statement read. “The NLC demands appropriate petrol pricing and calls for the swift activation of public refineries to serve the citizens’ interests.”

New Minimum Wage Committee to Oversee Nationwide Compliance

To drive change, the NLC announced plans to create a National Minimum Wage Implementation Committee, tasked with overseeing wage compliance, educating workers, and mobilizing citizens to resist actions that undermine fair labor practices.

“The NLC shall initiate a series of industrial actions in all non-compliant states and will not relent until the minimum wage is fully implemented across Nigeria,” the NLC asserted.

The NLC’s tough stance highlights its commitment to worker rights and fair economic policies. The Congress called on fuel marketers, state governments, and federal officials to prioritize citizens’ welfare and address Nigeria’s ongoing economic crisis.

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