The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has announced an indefinite nationwide strike starting Monday, June 3, 2024, following unsuccessful negotiations with the Federal Government over a new minimum wage. Despite urging President Bola Tinubu to intervene, discussions stalled as the government increased its offer to ₦60,000, which Labour deemed insufficient.
Labour leaders argue that the proposed wage does not align with the rising cost of living and inflation. They initially demanded ₦497,000 but revised it to ₦494,000, highlighting their willingness to negotiate. The NLC President, Joe Ajaero, expressed disappointment, stating that the government’s reluctance to meet their revised demands has left them no choice but to strike.
The Minister of State for Labour, Nkeiruka Onyecheoja, called the strike “unnecessary” and urged Labour to return to negotiations. She emphasized that the government’s ₦60,000 offer aims to balance worker welfare with economic stability. NLC leaders, however, insist that the offer is inadequate, urging President Tinubu to personally intervene to prevent the strike.