The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has instructed its members in states that have yet to implement the new minimum wage to initiate an indefinite strike starting on 1st December 2024.

The directive was issued following the NLC’s National Executive Council (NEC) meeting over the weekend. “The NEC expresses deep frustration at the ongoing delay and outright refusal by some state governments to enforce the 2024 National Minimum Wage Act”

“This betrayal by certain governors and officials is not only unlawful but also morally indefensible, as workers are denied fair wages amidst worsening economic hardship. It is a blatant disregard for both the law and the well-being of millions of Nigerian workers, who are being exploited by those meant to safeguard their welfare,” stated the NLC.

As a result, the NEC has resolved to establish a National Minimum Wage Implementation Committee. The committee will launch a nationwide assessment, mobilisation, and awareness campaign to educate workers and the public on the importance of resisting this affront to their dignity and rights. The NLC also announced its intention to pursue a series of industrial actions in all states that fail to comply and vowed not to relent until the minimum wage is fully enforced nationwide.

“To this end, state councils in non-compliant regions have been directed to embark on a strike from 1st December 2024 if the National Minimum Wage is not fully implemented by 30th November 2024. Nigerian workers demand justice, and they will not be denied,” read part of the NLC’s communique.

Meanwhile, the NLC has also criticised petroleum marketers, accusing them of inflating the pump price of petrol far above its true market value, which it says exacerbates the already high level of economic hardship caused by stringent government policies.

“The NEC-in-session noted with increasing concern the dubious practices surrounding petrol (PMS) pricing in Nigeria. It observed the likelihood of collusion against Nigerians by industry profiteers, as the current pump price exceeds the true market value. Excessive cost padding and inflated profit margins appear to have become the norm, as shown in the ongoing controversy between marketers and the Dangote Group. It seems that both Nigerian workers and the public are being exploited by powerful economic interests, potentially delaying the activation of domestic public refineries,” the NLC said.

The Congress called for fair petrol pricing and urged the swift reopening of public refineries in Port Harcourt, Warri, and Kaduna to dismantle the monopolistic grip held by industry giants.

The NLC also raised serious concerns about the country’s worsening economic conditions. It observed that inflation continues to surge unchecked, with the cost of essentials escalating beyond the reach of the average worker.

The NLC demanded immediate and substantial intervention from the Federal Government, beyond mere token measures, to alleviate the suffering of Nigerians. “We call for the implementation of comprehensive social protection policies that shield Nigerians from poverty, provide accessible healthcare, and guarantee a wage that truly reflects the cost of living. This should include a national wage review and a reassessment of policies that have further impoverished the Nigerian people.”