TDNigeria may be heading towards another nationwide strike as organised labour prepares to resume negotiations with the Federal Government over the national minimum wage.
The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) and the Trade Union Congress (TUC) announced that fresh talks will begin in July 2026.
The development raises concerns about possible industrial action if consensus is not reached.
The announcement was made at a joint press conference on the sidelines of the 114th International Labour Conference in Geneva, Switzerland.
Labour leaders stressed that they appreciate the acknowledgement by state governors that the current ₦70,000 minimum wage is inadequate.
Meanwhile, they cautioned against rushing to fix a new figure without following due process.
“We welcome the recognition that ₦70,000 cannot sustain the average Nigerian worker.
“However, we urge all stakeholders not to hastily fix an amount but to allow the proper negotiation process to run its course,” the unions stated.
NLC, TUC Hails Federal Government over Gratuities
Organised labour also commended the Federal Government for reinstating the payment of gratuities.
It described it as a positive step towards restoring workers’ dignity.
However, they insisted that arrears must be cleared to ensure fairness and credibility in government’s commitment to workers’ welfare.
The looming negotiations come at a time of heightened tension across the country.
Rising inflation, soaring food prices, and worsening insecurity have compounded the struggles of workers, many of whom say their wages no longer cover basic needs.
NLC, TUC Slam Government Over Worsening Insecurity
In a related development, the NLC and TUC have threatened to embark on a nationwide strike over worsening insecurity.
They cited the government’s failure to protect lives and property.
According to reports, labour leaders argue that insecurity has crippled economic activities, displaced communities, and made it impossible for workers to earn a decent living.
Observers warn that the combination of wage disputes and security concerns could plunge Nigeria into a major crisis if urgent steps are not taken.
Analysts note that the July 2026 negotiations will be a critical test of the government’s ability to balance fiscal realities with the pressing needs of workers.
For now, the labour unions remain firm:
Without a fair and sustainable minimum wage, and without decisive action on insecurity, Nigeria risks another paralyzing strike that could disrupt economic and social life nationwide.
Solidarity with Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT)
Last week, both the NLC and TUC expressed solidarity with the Nigeria Union of Teachers (NUT) over the nationwide strike prompted by repeated abductions of teachers and pupils.
The NLC described the coordinated action as a decisive move by teachers to protect themselves rather than wait to be “slaughtered.”
NLC President, Comrade Joe Ajaero, commended NUT leadership under Comrade Titus Audu Amba.
He stressed that the strike is a wake-up call for government to take insecurity more seriously.
Ajaero lamented the disturbing images of abducted children in Oyo State.
He warned that citizens may begin switching loyalty to bandits if the crisis is not urgently addressed.
The NLC recalled its past efforts, including security summits and protests.
It criticized government’s reliance on condolence messages and assurances of being “on top of the situation.”
It urged concrete, measurable action to free abductees and restore public confidence.
“Free the abductees now, wherever they are held,” Ajaero declared.
He emphasized that the NLC will not hesitate to stage solidarity actions with teachers or other workers if government fails to act decisively.
