The Nigeria Labour Congress has warned that Nigerian workers may be heading for another major confrontation with the Federal Government over wages and welfare as economic hardship continues to worsen across the country.
President of the NLC, Joe Ajaero, gave the indication on Tuesday in Abuja during the unveiling of the roadmap for the 50th anniversary celebration of the Radio, Television, Theatre and Arts Workers Union (RATTAWU).
The event brought together labour leaders, government officials, and media stakeholders to discuss the future of workers in Nigeria’s media and creative industries.
Speaking at the event, Ajaero said worsening inflation, rising living costs, and the effects of government economic reforms had pushed many Nigerian workers to the brink.
He insisted that organised labour would continue to demand what he described as a “living wage” capable of meeting the realities of the current economy.
The labour leader also advised RATTAWU officials not to abandon the core principles of the trade union movement or become distracted by political influence and privileges associated with leadership positions.
Ajaero’s remarks come amid growing concerns over the declining purchasing power of workers despite the implementation of the N70,000 national minimum wage approved in 2024.
The current wage structure followed months of negotiations between organised labour and the Federal Government after the removal of petrol subsidy and the floating of the naira triggered sharp increases in transportation costs, food prices, and inflation.
At the peak of the negotiations, labour unions demanded N250,000 as the new minimum wage, arguing that existing salaries could no longer sustain workers under prevailing economic conditions.
The Federal Government initially proposed N48,000 before later increasing the offer to N62,000 following pressure from labour unions and nationwide protests.
President Bola Tinubu eventually approved N70,000 as a compromise figure and reduced the minimum wage review cycle from five years to three years.
However, labour leaders have continued to argue that inflation has significantly eroded the value of the new wage, leaving many workers struggling to cope with rising living expenses.
