NLC Issues December 1 Ultimatum for New Minimum Wage

The Nigeria Labour Congress (NLC) has issued a December 1, 2024 ultimatum for state governments to implement the newly approved minimum wage of N70,000. The union also accused fuel marketers of inflating petrol prices, claiming Nigerians are being overcharged far beyond the actual market value. In a communique released after its National Executive Council meeting, the NLC expressed deep concerns over the growing economic hardship and urged an immediate review of what it termed “anti-people” policies.

The NLC warned that states failing to implement the new minimum wage by November 30, 2024, would face indefinite strikes starting December 1. Despite President Bola Tinubu approving the wage increase in July, many states have yet to adopt the new rate. While some states have promised compliance, others have committed to exceeding the federal minimum. As of early November, more than 20 states had begun implementation.

Additionally, the NLC vowed to intensify industrial actions and public campaigns to ensure full compliance across Nigeria. It also criticized the ongoing pricing controversy between fuel marketers and the Dangote Group, accusing industry leaders of exploiting Nigerians with inflated petrol costs. The union called for swift action to revive Nigeria’s domestic refineries to curb further exploitation.